Effect of Internship Programs on the Work Competence of College Students

Firdaus Syafrudin; Rusman  Purwanto

Authors

Firdaus Syafrudin Universitas Patompo, Makassar, Indonesia Author
Rusman Purwanto , Universitas Patompo, Makassar, Indonesia Author

Keywords:

Academic Achievement, Active Learning, Instructional Strategies, Secondary Education, Student Engagement

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of internship programs on the development of work competence among college students. As higher education institutions increasingly emphasize experiential learning, internships have become a pivotal component in bridging academic knowledge with practical workplace skills. The research explores various dimensions of work competence, including technical skills, problem-solving abilities, communication, teamwork, and professional attitudes. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from a diverse sample of students who participated in internship programs across multiple disciplines. Quantitative analysis assessed changes in self-reported competencies before and after internships, while qualitative interviews provided deeper insights into students’ experiential learning and challenges faced. Results indicate a significant positive effect of internship participation on students’ work competence, particularly in enhancing real-world problem-solving and interpersonal communication skills. Furthermore, internships contributed to increased career awareness and professional confidence. The findings underscore the importance of integrating structured internship opportunities within college curricula to better prepare students for the demands of the labor market. Recommendations include strengthening collaboration between academic institutions and industry partners to optimize internship quality and relevance. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on experiential education by highlighting the crucial role of internships in fostering employability and workforce readiness among emerging professionals

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