Not sure what your next step after high school or college should be? Getting an internship is one of the smartest ways to discover your interests, gain experience and earn money — all at the same time. Whether you’re searching for jobs for high school graduates, exploring entry-level jobs for college grads or just want to know how to get your first job, a talent development marketplace can help you get there faster.
Why Internships Are a Smart First Move
Internships aren’t just for students trying to fill a resume — they’re powerful launchpads for long-term careers. Getting into the workplace early, even part-time, helps you understand how companies operate, what roles interest you and what skills you actually want to develop. And unlike unpaid roles from the past, many modern internships now pay, giving you a chance to earn while you learn.
If you're not sure what path to take, internships help you figure that out. They let you test out jobs, learn about industries and build real connections without locking into a full-time role right away. For many recent college grads and high school graduates, an internship is the missing step between school and success.
The Value of Internships: Are They Helping or Wasting Your Time?
Work Readiness Is Key to Landing a Paid Internship
The competition for paid internships is getting tighter. What separates you from other candidates isn’t just your GPA or where you went to school—it’s whether you’re work ready. Employers want interns who can communicate clearly, take initiative and adapt quickly.
That’s where work readiness programs come in. These programs help you build soft skills, understand employer expectations and learn how to operate in a professional environment. If you're wondering how to get your first job, being prepared to act like a reliable team member from day one is a big advantage.
Internships Help You Earn, Learn and Explore
Instead of jumping straight into a full-time job or a major you’re unsure about, internships give you flexibility. You can work part-time while continuing school, explore multiple industries or develop a career interest you never considered before.
Internships are also a great match for anyone using a talent development marketplace like pepelwerk. You can align your learning goals with job matches, gain on-the-job training and start earning sooner than traditional career paths.
Parents: Help Your Young Adult Prepare for a Career
Parents play a big role in helping young adults take control of their careers. Instead of focusing only on school or grades, encourage your child to think about long-term goals—what kind of life do they want to build, and what skills will help them get there? A talent development marketplace can give them tools to start answering those questions.
Here’s how students and parents can work together to get ready for internships:
- Create a profile on a talent development marketplace like pepelwerk.
- Complete a work readiness program to build confidence and essential skills.
- Apply for paid internships aligned with their goals.
- Take short micro courses or career assessments to figure out areas of interest.
- Use coaching to stay focused and move toward a goal job.
Get a Head Start with a Work Readiness Program
With pepelwerk’s monthly or preferred memberships, young adults get access to internships, career coaching, personalized learning plans and work readiness programs to help get you ahead. Whether you're a recent college grad, in high school or somewhere in between, pepelwerk gives you the resources to turn your next opportunity into a long-term career path.
Don’t wait for the perfect job to fall into your lap—build experience, learn skills and explore opportunities with pepelwerk.
