Internships programs are structured, short-term opportunities to work in at an organisation to gain practical exposure and hands-on learning to develop professional skills. Nonprofits, multinational corporations, startups, government agencies, and other organisations could offer internships. The audience for such an internship program is young people entering the workforce.

Internships programs for the youth help in developing resilience to cope with jobs and uncertain job markets, professional skills and improve career readiness. Internships also create multiple pathways to enter and re-enter the workforce.

 Repeated exposure to moderate or manageable stress, like in an internship program, helps recalibrate the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis – which improves the intern’s emotional regulation. Internships that require decision-making, and problem-solving stimulate the prefrontal cortex, building impulse control, and goal-oriented behaviour. In a supportive yet challenging environment, an individual’s neural pathways strengthen and essentially help them “bounce back”. Additionally, when an individual completes tasks, they build confidence in their ability to do work, therefore, improving their internal locus of control and the belief that “I can cope”.

While a well-structured internship has a low risk of harm, there are risks of exploitation. Consequently, an excessive workload can lead to fatigue, anxiety, and loss of confidence. To mitigate these risks, programs are responsible for setting clear and reasonable expectations and goals for individuals.