The Reading Internship Scheme is in high demand and making a real difference, providing much-needed experiences for undergraduates whilst also supporting charities and not-for-profit organisations in the process.
The scheme helps students find meaningful work experience, allowing them to develop their employability and transferable skills in readiness for the graduate labour market. Evidence shows that work experience can make a real difference with securing good graduate outcomes and this is especially true for students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In 2023 donors enabled 54 more students to undertake internships with charities and not-for-profit organisations.
The University of Reading believes that no student should take on extracurricular work experience unless it pays a living wage. Yet many charities and smaller not-for-profit organisations struggle to provide opportunities because of lack of funds. Donors are helping bridge that gap by giving organisations access to student talent. The impact of those donations is felt twice, both on and off our campuses.
Every day was different. I was helping clients prepping for job interviews, but also got involved with marketing and communications and providing event support too. I’m so glad I applied because I got so much out of the experience. I met so many inspiring people and I loved seeing how much it meant to our clients to be supported on a positive pathway.
Emily’s internship was with the charity Smart Works, who help empower unemployed people to get into the work place.
Internships fit around study commitment and can last between 4-8 weeks. Many are office-based and take place close to campus outside of term time, but internships can also involve remote working for organisations further afield and be undertaken part time alongside studying.
For students, the experience is invaluable to them personally, but the important work they undertake means students are also helping others whilst they participate.
The student who participated in the internship was exceptional and demonstrated a high level of commitment to their work. They actively engaged with our team, embraced their responsibilities, and consistently delivered quality results. We were impressed by their professionalism, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn.
Employer from 2023
Your support could make all the difference to a Reading student, eager to learn and help others.
