Navigating Internships in India: Essential Do’s, Don’ts, and Trusted Resources
Internships are crucial stepping stones to building a successful career. They offer real-world skills, industry exposure, and networking opportunities. However, with a rise in dubious internship schemes across India, students must carefully select genuine opportunities.
🔑 Do’s:
- Use Trusted Platforms: Apply through official university portals or reputable websites like Internshala, AICTE Internship Portal, and LinkedIn.
- Verify the Company: Always research the company offering the internship. Check for an official website, LinkedIn presence, and reviews from previous interns.
- Clarify Expectations: Clearly understand the roles, responsibilities, stipend structure, and learning outcomes before starting.
- Consult Your College: Reach out to your institution’s placement cell or career guidance center to find verified internships and seek advice.
- Get Documentation: Obtain a formal offer letter detailing duration, stipend, role, and responsibilities.
🚩 Don’ts:
- Never Pay to Intern: Legitimate internships rarely ask for money. Avoid internships requiring fees for application, training, or certifications upfront.
- Beware of Informal Communications: Be cautious of internships advertised solely via informal channels like WhatsApp, Telegram, or unknown email addresses.
- Avoid Ambiguous Offers: Steer clear from internships that don’t clarify roles, deliverables, or expectations explicitly.
- Don’t Ignore Red Flags: Pay attention to signals such as poorly structured websites, lack of official emails, or urgent pressure to join immediately.
📌 Trusted Resources for Internships:
- Internshala: www.internshala.com
- AICTE Internship Portal: internship.aicte-india.org
- LinkedIn Jobs & Internships: www.linkedin.com/jobs
- University Portals: Use internship portals specifically vetted by your college or university.
🛡️ If You Encounter Fraud:
Immediately report fraudulent internships to your college placement cell. File complaints on consumer forums and report cyber fraud at
cybercrime.gov.in.
Internships should empower you, not exploit you. Stay informed, vigilant, and proactive to ensure your internship experience is genuinely rewarding and beneficial.
