FROM CLASSROOM TO CAREER: THE VALUE OF INTERNSHIPS
Feature
EMPLOYERS: Have you noticed increased awareness of your company or industry as a result of offering internships?
Scott Anderson, Senior Software Engineer Manager, IBM
Interns often become informal ambassadors, sharing their experiences across social media and academic networks, peers, and professors which organically expands your reach. Beyond visibility, internships position your organization as a leader in talent development. Interns carry their experiences into future roles, often becoming advocates or partners. Promoting your internship program also reinforces your commitment to mentorship and growth, making your company more attractive to top-tier talent.
Christa Holmen, Talent Acquisition Manager, Knutson Construction
Absolutely! Each year we have more and more applicants from our focus universities. Word of mouth about their experience at their internship is invaluable. We also provide SWAG for them to wear / show when they are back at school after their internship concludes.
Lance Campbell, CPA, Partner, Hawkins Ash CPAs
I think we have seen a higher uptick in the number of intern applications we get and colleges know our firm's reputation and suggest students look at internships within our firm.
Ryan Parsons, President, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce
As our organization grows and our internship program evolves, we’ve seen increased interest from students, instructors, and professional networks. This has helped expand our program, and receiving recommendations or direct outreach from students is a positive sign of its effectiveness. Students actively seek internships and often rely on their professional, family, or personal connections to find opportunities to gain experience in their chosen field or explore new career paths.
8 | ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE — OCTOBER 2025
Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker