Students struggle to find internships.

During internship season, many students send out applications everywhere but receive no response. Many students believe that experience requirements are a major barrier for those about to graduate.

Students fromFPT Polytechnic College participate in the job fair hoping to find suitable internships and jobs - Photo: KO

Many students find this to be a paradox for those entering the real world for the first time, especially interns.

Demand experience

After more than three months of diligently searching for an internship, Thu Thủy, a final-year student at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, still hasn't found a suitable organization, as many employers require interns to have prior experience.

Instead of spending time working to gain experience in her first year, Thuy focused on her studies. By her final year, when she started looking for an internship, Thuy realized that her previous job as a teaching assistant at a Chinese language center wasn't enough to impress potential employers.

"I sent my CV to many places. Many job descriptions required interns to have more than 3 months of experience, or didn't require any experience at all. But when I received feedback, they said they wouldn't continue because I didn't meet the professional requirements," Thuy shared.

Thuy believes that in the context of fierce competition in the labor market, requiring qualifications and experience is understandable.

However, for students who need to complete their studies while also seeking internship opportunities, meeting these criteria can be quite challenging.

"When we were under a tight deadline for submitting reports, we were forced to do internships wherever we could, even though we knew it wouldn't help our future careers," Thuy confided.

Similarly, Nguyen Sy Tram Anh, a fourth-year business administration student at the University of Finance - Marketing, shared that because she couldn't arrange her time according to the department's internship schedule, she was forced to find an internship on her own. Tram Anh sent her CV to more than ten places but was repeatedly rejected, mostly due to a lack of practical experience.

"I found the requirements set by some employers too high for interns, and I felt extremely discouraged and didn't know what to do," Tram Anh confided.

Be proactive to gain an early advantage.

Mr. Nguyen Huu Chien, a human resources specialist at Icon and Denim Joint Stock Company, said that having experienced interns reduces training costs, time, and effort. Therefore, in some large companies, certain positions will require interns to have experience.

Mr. Tran Vu Thanh, strategy director at Better You, cited a survey result from Hanoi University of Industry showing that up to 94% of students surveyed said they had worked or were currently working part-time.

According to MSc. Vo Ngoc Nhon, deputy director of the admissions center at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, for interns without experience, proactiveness, especially in acquiring supplementary certificates and skills, will make a good impression on recruiters.

When comparing recent graduates, those who demonstrate skills through certifications or professional courses also have a significant advantage.

"If possible, even while still in school, you should identify the company and position where you dream of interning and working later. Then, research their requirements beforehand to prepare. Proactively sending emails or contacting them to ask for information and establish a connection is even better, as this is also a way to create a positive first impression," Mr. Nhon advised.

In addition, clear career direction is also a plus. Many recent graduates are eager to try many different jobs, but this can raise concerns among employers about their level of commitment.

"Therefore, you can showcase this on your CV; a candidate who clearly understands their career goals will inspire confidence and be more persuasive," Mr. Nhon shared.

School/Faculty Support

According to Mr. Tran Nam, Head of Student Affairs at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, the university currently supports students in finding internships by introducing them to previously affiliated partners. In addition, students can also independently search for internships and provide information for faculty review.

At the university, the Entrepreneurship and Job Placement Center plays a crucial role in connecting students with suitable internship opportunities. Department leaders and assigned faculty members will directly support students. If students encounter difficulties in finding an internship, they should contact the department for assistance.

Strengthening cooperation with businesses

According to Mr. Cu Xuan Tien, Head of Admissions and Student Affairs at the University of Economics and Law, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, to facilitate students' access to suitable internship opportunities, universities and colleges need to strengthen cooperation with businesses and equip students with skills related to job searching and internships.

In addition, the school needs to closely connect with its alumni network, especially successful alumni; and apply technology to support internships and job placement.

Mr. Tien stated that in 2024, the school will implement a business-integrated training model for the financial technology and management information systems majors. Students will learn from their first year, combining knowledge of information technology, business, management, and practical experience at businesses, with salaries depending on the position and capabilities.

"In addition, we need to listen to feedback from students and businesses through surveys and evaluations to improve internship and practical training programs," Mr. Tien commented.

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/sinh-vien-chat-vat-tim-noi-thuc-tap-20250228233920653.htm