"On-the-job experiences have become an important selection criteria for companies when choosing an individual for a new position. The best way for college students to have an on-the-job experience is through internships.

Internships build your resume, prove that you can survive in the "real world," and show that you have the initiative and drive to look outside your textbooks for the answers. Does this really matter? Of last year's new hires, 48 percent had career-related work experiences during their college careers."

 -- Patrick Sheetz, Collegiate Employment Research Institute at Michigan State University; http://www.tripod.com.

"Employers expect that, upon graduation, students will have experiences outside the classroom which will help them to be successful in their careers."

  -- Shelly Bleek, Making the Most of Your Internship; http://www.careermag.com.

"While many businesses offer internships to students for college credit, several hire recent graduates who are seeking further exposure to a particular industry for paid and non-paid positions.

Many recent college graduates do internships as a way to get the added experience while they search for a job. Also, those who are looking for a career change may take on an internship to get a taste of the profession  Internships have turned into a great testing ground for hiring.

While college is the learning center to prepare for the real world, internships provide the opportunity to put your skills to the test in a professional working environment.

For those seeking an internship look for a company you would really want to work for, be open to everything, and learn as much as possible."

  -- Sherri Pfeil, "Internships not Just for Students Anymore", Employment Review; http://www.bestjobsusa.com.