Internships are a common kind of training at Swiss institutions, according to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, although there are obvious disparities in the department and desire to complete one, according to EU Helpers.
While 38% of the students polled in 2020 reported having completed at least one internship, 7% reported having made special preparations, and another 18% stated that they intended to finish their internship later in their studies.
Additionally, it was revealed that not all internships were performed in Switzerland because 18% of the students opted to do their internships abroad.
Even though all students express interest in participating in an internship during their studies, the poll found that students attending colleges that specialize in teacher education are particularly interested in internships.
In teacher education universities, 83% of students reported completing at least one internship throughout their studies, according to the Swiss Federal Statistical Office.
Additionally, 33% of students at technical institutions and universities of applied sciences completed an internship.
Regarding the department, it has been mentioned that there are considerable differences between departments in the percentage of students who complete internships.
The majority of the students who participated in at least one internship during their studies in Switzerland were in the department of health, followed by students who studied in the departments of medicine and pharmacy, exact and natural sciences, and technology and IT.
In addition, it was highlighted that the vast majority of students who successfully completed their internships expressed their satisfaction with it. Additionally, they claimed that their mentors supported them as they completed their internships.
Students reported that by completing an internship, they were able to expand their professional networks, learn new skills related to their area of study, and boost their self-confidence. Additionally, they claimed that they are better equipped for the job market.