Don't Be Afraid of the Unpaid

BY: Demi Seligman

Photo Courtesy of James Madison Univeristy

Internships

As college students, we’re constantly told that internships are the key to landing a job after graduation. With today’s work environment requiring extensive experience, even for entry-level jobs, we find ourselves fighting tooth and nail for the best opportunity and paycheck. With the pressures of tuition, housing and everyday expenses weighing heavily on students, paid internships are highly desirable and sought after. While unpaid internships can feel like a step back, they can open doors in unexpected ways if you’re willing to give them a chance.

Gaining Experience

Unpaid internships often offer unique opportunities for growth and skill-building. Many nonprofits, grassroots organizations or smaller companies lack the budget to fund interns but provide rich learning environments. These settings allow interns to take on meaningful projects, collaborate closely with professionals, and gain mentorship that may not be as readily available in larger, paid programs. The experience itself becomes the reward, equipping students with the tools and confidence to thrive in future careers.

In addition to skill-building, unpaid internships can open doors to professional networks that last long beyond the internship term. Interns can form connections with supervisors, peers, and industry professionals who can later serve as references or even lead to paid opportunities. For college students eager to enter competitive industries such as communications, entertainment, or nonprofit work, an unpaid internship can act as a stepping stone to the next, more financially sustainable role.

Paving your own Path

What unpaid internships lack in paycheck, they make up for in meaningful work. Smaller companies and nonprofits, in particular, can offer some of the best experiences because they aren’t expected to have the budget for paid interns. Instead of being limited to coffee runs or busy work, you’re more likely to be trusted with real responsibilities like drafting content, pitching ideas, or assisting directly on projects that matter. These hands-on opportunities not only sharpen your skills but also give you standout experiences to highlight on your résumé and in future interviews.

Weighing the Cost

Of course, it is important to weigh the decision carefully. Not every unpaid opportunity is feasible. Students should consider the time commitment, potential expenses, and alignment with their career goals before committing. However, when an unpaid internship offers substantive experience, skill development and strong mentorship, it can be well worth the time over money investment. It is important to remember that the value of an experience lies in the effort that you put in and what you take away from it.