Externship vs. Internship: What Are the Key Differences?

Gaining professional experience through an externship vs internship is highly recommended. But what’s the distinction, and how do you know which path to professional success to take? Many people in their field choose to internship vs do an externship first. But then again, how do they diverge from one another? Which one should you pick, anyway? An externship gives you an insider’s view of a specific profession or industry. An externship is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a certain field by working alongside a seasoned expert. This article will compare and contrast a medical assistant externship with an internship, vs and an apprenticeship.

But before we get into that, let’s get a quick primer on what an externship and internship are.

What Is Externship?

An externship is a career-based educational opportunity in which one observes and learns from a professional in their field.

• Experiential learning. Hands-on training; experiential education
• Shadowing. Keeping an eye on an employee as they work

Externships are short-term programs that allow you to gain experience in a particular field of work without taking on the same level of responsibility as an intern would.

There is a wide range of possible fields for an externship. They are widespread at professional schools, especially in the fields of medicine and law. 

Also, “externships are a great way to test drive an emerging interest without a longer commitment,” explains Sharon Belden Castonguay, executive director of the career center at Wesleyan University. “These opportunities give you a taste of what it’s like to work in a particular field, industry, or company for a limited time.”

What Happens in an Externship? 

The first day of an externship often consists of a tour of the organization and introductions to key workers who can answer questions and provide insight into what it’s like to work there. Meetings and social events may be open to them as observers. They will get a glimpse into the daily routines of workers and the tasks they complete. Most students’ understanding of their chosen fields of study up to this point has been limited to textbook information. Through an externship, they are given the opportunity to work alongside members of their chosen profession in an actual workplace setting.

Also, externs will be able to get a feel for the company culture through conversations with workers about job opportunities, market trends, and more. How formal are we talking? Can you count on a warm welcome from locals? Is everyone on their own or does everyone work together as a team? All of these are essential aspects of a workplace to take note of and assess.

They may gain new perspectives or renewed enthusiasm for their chosen field as a result of this experience. Externships provide students with real-world experience early in their academic careers, helping them determine what they do and do not want to study. Many students who are on the fence about their future careers find that externships help them get a feel for other fields, figure out what they don’t like, and zero in on what they like.

What Do Externs Do?

How do Externs contribute?

Depending on the topic, an externship may consist of little more than seeing specialists at work. An extern in the medical field, for instance, would tag along on rounds with a nurse, while an intern in the performing arts might get a sneak peek behind the scenes. Common instances of what an extern might be asked to accomplish include: 

• Assist a specialist in carrying out their regular responsibilities
• Attend a meeting of the team
• Pay attention to the conversation between a professional and a client or customer
• Observe company operations and meet top executives.

How Can You Get an Externship?

Students can search for, apply for, and be accepted to an externship through a number of different channels. You can find your next externship in one of three typical ways:

#1. Career Counseling at a University

The institution of higher education and the company offering the externship often have some sort of working partnership. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with your academic counselor when seeking an externship.

If you need help finding an advisor or you’re not sure who your advisor is, visit the career services office on campus. In most cases, they will be able to provide you with a list of organizations that provide externships in the field you are interested in.

#2. Relationship Building

If you want to look for an externship on your own, one option is to talk to people in your field. It’s always a good idea to expand your network, whether that means attending a business networking event as a student, reaching out to existing business connections, or visiting conferences and participating in educational activities where you meet individuals in your profession. You can inquire for referrals to externships if you have a solid network in place.

To find an externship, you can also utilize social media to contact people you already know and ask for recommendations. While you’re still in school and looking for work experience, it’s a good idea to create a profile on business networking social websites.

#3. Academic, Professional, or Educational Groups

Students may get help arranging externships from community groups like the rotary club, medical firm, the chamber of commerce, or other non-profits. Make contact with local groups that rely on donations and membership from the public to see if they can help you get an externship.

Even government institutions such as courts and police departments may also be amenable to hosting externs. If your school doesn’t assist with finding an externship, you’ll have to get more creative with your search.

What Are the Benefits of an Externship?

Here are some of the benefits of an externship.

• Make some cash. Earning money during an externship might help with financial obligations like tuition and living costs.
• Get hands-on training in a field of study or profession that your school or employer doesn’t typically offer through an internship. You may be paid on an hourly basis and given the freedom to choose your own projects, allowing you to focus on the aspects of your work that bring you the greatest satisfaction.
• Successfully complete an externship and then be employed by the host organization regardless of whether or not anyone else is promoted from within the workplace.

During an Externship, What Do You Do?

Here’s a rundown of some of the things you may anticipate from your externship:

• Meet with people. The company might let you observe supervisory meetings. Managers may not always invite you to meetings because of the sensitive nature of some topics, like trade secrets.
• Keep an eye on regular processes and activities. During your externship, you will watch individuals in your field perform their regular jobs. Make the most of your opportunity to see individuals in their professional settings so that you can learn more about teamwork, problem solving, and other aspects of the working world.
• Receive a tour with management.  A manager or other company official may show you around the office or show you around the division where you’ll be spending your externship.

What is Internship?

An internship is a paid, temporary position provided by a business or organization to a person (often a student, but not always) so that they can gain first-hand experience in their desired subject. It’s not just a job; it’s an educational opportunity as well. Interns benefit from meaningful work, exposure to the sector, networking opportunities, and the development of both technical and soft skills. Some internships even result in offers of permanent employment.

Also, most summer internships last for 10-12 weeks and require 40 hours a week. Internships in the fall and spring are often part-time. Some people get money for doing this. Others aren’t. 

What to Expect in an Internship

You can anticipate learning by doing during your internship. Although the specifics of each job role will vary, it is not uncommon to become part of a larger group tasked with developing a given service or product. A position on the squad will be assigned to you, and you will be expected to participate.

You can learn a lot about how a business runs and who does what by taking part in an internship. You’ll be able to meet and connect with other professionals in the field, as well as other team members and clients. However, these are all side consequences of the internship, and your primary responsibility is to contribute to the firm through your job.

Why Are Internships Important?

Internships allow you to learn from experienced professionals while gaining insight into the work involved in an entry-level position. You will be exposed to the working world and have the opportunity to network with industry leaders. From your fellow interns to more senior professionals, you’ll begin to form your own network.

A less evident but no less valuable benefit of an internship is the opportunity to learn what you do not want to do. When looking for work, it can be tough to know where to begin. Internships are a great way to test the waters before diving in headfirst. You might get lucky and discover a new passion. And if it doesn’t, you’ll have a better idea of what doesn’t work for you. The more knowledge you have going into a challenging task like choosing a career, the better.

Furthermore, internships have become increasingly widespread in recent years, and employers now anticipate seeing them on resumes. Candidates who have relevant job experience have a significant advantage over those who have merely relevant academic training. Internships allow you to not only gain experience and knowledge in your desired sector, but also to showcase your abilities and expertise to potential employers. Even for companies that are experts at employing recent grads, no amount of classroom learning can replace actual work experience.

Internship programs are frequently used by companies to find candidates for open full-time roles inside the company. Internships serve multiple purposes for companies, including as a means of educating new employees and (often) filling unfilled positions. For some graduating college seniors, this means they can enter their last year with job offers already in hand.

In a nutshell, internships are beneficial since they allow you to check out different fields and professions before committing to one.

Methods for Securing an Internship

Now that you understand the purpose of an internship, you may be wondering where to start looking for one. Here are three places you can look for internships.

#1. Utilize Institutional Means

If you are a student, you should visit your school’s career center to learn more about how to participate in on-campus recruiting and career fairs. There could possibly be student job boards at your school. These businesses are actively seeking graduates from your institution. Take advantage of the fact that prospective employers will be knocking on your door thanks to your educational link.

#2. Surf the Web

Of course, the internet offers a wealth of information as well, with sites like The Muse providing access to internship and employment opportunities as well as in-depth analyses of various companies and their working environments.

It’s advisable to narrow your search terms before you begin your online exploration, such as “product management internship” or “editorial internship.” It seems contradictory, but limiting your search results will actually make finding what you need easier. Maintain an open mind as the process progresses, but begin with a specific objective in mind.

#3. Take a Look at the Organizations You Like Best

Everyone has a short list of ideal businesses they’d like to work for. Investigating the company is another option if you are undecided about the type of internship you want to pursue. Check the website of the company you want to intern for to learn more about internships and other opportunities. Apply for openings in which you think you might be interested. After all, one of the best things about an internship is that it can help you find your dream job after you graduate.

Benefits of Internships

Think about how an internship can help you hone your skills and gain experience as you prepare to graduate from college and launch your career. Internships offer students several benefits, including those listed below. 

#1. Prior Work History

Education and experience qualifications are typically listed in job advertisements. You may lack the necessary experience if you are joining the workforce for the first time after completing higher education or a vocational training program. An internship might serve as the missing link. You can participate in real-world meetings and get hands-on experience with relevant projects while gaining insight into the inner workings of a company in your subject of study.

#2. Education in the Field of Study

An internship may involve helping with laboratory work in the sciences. You’ll be able to put the research skills you’ve gained in class to use and make a real difference to the lab’s vital work. Such advanced education is necessary for some permanent research positions. Taking advantage of internships is a great way to figure out whether or not a career in the lab is right for you.

#3. Mentorship

Personal chemistry between mentor and mentee is the cornerstone of many fruitful mentoring partnerships. As an intern, you may have the opportunity to meet someone who could become a mentor and aid you in your professional development.

Meeting someone face to face allows you to ask questions, express gratitude, and demonstrate humility. Even if you decide to pursue full-time employment elsewhere, an internship might set the stage for a natural progression of your relationship.

What Is the Difference Between Internship and Externship? 

College students and recent graduates can benefit from both externship vs internship by gaining practical experience in a variety of fields. Both provide students the chance to get insight into a field of study and try out practical training before committing to a degree program. If you’re trying to select between an internship vs an externship, here are some crucial differences to keep in mind.

#1. Compensation

College students can still get paid for their internship vs externship work even if they are not compensated directly. The companies they work for and the duties they do determine how much they are paid. Also, an intern who helps out with errands for regular staff members might be reimbursed for their petrol expenses. If you’re a student looking to make some money while getting some practical experience in your field of study, an internship might be a better option for you than an externship.

#2. Timeframe of the Program

Internships are typically multi-week or multi-month long programs that students complete throughout the academic year or over the summer. Externships, on the other hand, provide a condensed training program in a specific area of a business or sector of interest.

The duration of a program might range from a single day to a whole six weeks. Sitting in on a work for a few days or a week gives them a good picture of what it’s like and helps them determine whether or not it’s something they want to pursue.

Since students can gain experience in a variety of fields and fields of study through a series of concentrated externships. Students can do them whenever they like during the school year because of their short length, although most do them during school breaks like winter and spring.

#3. Credits for College or University

An externship vs internship is usually arranged by educational institutions, which may or may not award course credit. Credit is more likely to be granted for longer programs rather than shorter ones.

Internship credit hours at many universities cost students money, even over the summer. For individuals whose internship or externship is unpaid, this might be a significant financial burden.

#4. Responsibilities

Responsibility is another point of differentiation between an externship vs an internship. An extern may not be assigned any specific tasks or get feedback from a supervisor while shadowing a worker. An intern may be able to gain practical experience by helping out with actual work during their internship. Management may be so impressed with an intern’s work that they offer the student a full-time position once they graduate.

#5. Program Intensity

Due to the nature of an externship as a brief introduction to what a prospective student’s work life would be like, such experiences typically provide less in-depth training than vs an internship. Doing a few externship before committing to an vs internship is one way to narrow down potential career options while still in school.

Furthermore, an excellent externship might help a student decide whether vs not an internship in the field would be beneficial. It’s a wonderful experience to have on your CV immediately out of college, even if you don’t wind up working in the field you interned in.

What Is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a type of post-secondary education like college or university, there are significant differences. An apprenticeship is a program that combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training to produce a trade certification, or “ticket.” Also, apprentices undergo paid on-the-job training with an employer in addition to learning skills in a classroom.

Apprentices spend at least 20% of their time in the workplace undertaking classroom-based training with a college, university, or training provider leading to a nationally recognized qualification in addition to their on-the-job training. 

The duties of an apprentice are: 

• Compensated work with vacation time 
• Practical experience in the field or desired occupation
• 20% or more instruction outside of work 
• Assessment procedures leading to a certificate or degree recognized by the government

What Are the Types of Apprenticeship

In the US, you can get an apprenticeship in practically any field, and there’s a vast variety of different jobs available in each. Among these are:

• Financial services and banking apprenticeship, as well as accounting apprenticeships covering topics including billing and expenses, payroll, and taxes.
• Apprenticeship programs in management, consulting, and leadership in the business world.
• Learn the ropes of the construction industry with a regulated apprenticeship program.
• Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering all provide apprenticeship programs.
• Apprenticeship in the healthcare sector, including the dental and medical fields.
• Apprenticeships in HR for those interested in pursuing careers in client service, consulting, or management.
• Apprenticeship programs in software engineering and data security for those interested in a career in information technology (IT).
• Apprenticeship programs in law include those for aspiring paralegals, legal executives, and solicitors.
• Training programs for aspiring marketers in areas such as PR, social media, and digital advertising.
• Apprenticeships for aspiring professionals in the media.
• Training programs in retail management, merchandising, and buying. Apprenticeships in sales are also available.
• Logistics, transportation, railway, automobile, and aviation industries all provide apprenticeship programs.

How Apprenticeships Work

In an apprenticeship program, you get paid to work while also attending school for a set amount of time each week to get a recognized credential. After completing your apprenticeship, you should be well-equipped to either enter the workforce or continue your training at a higher level.

What you study will be tailored to your intended profession. Apprentices in every position, however, participate in a regulated training plan that culminates in a nationally recognized credential.

Examples of such requirements could be:

• Having a GCSE in English, math, and computer science is an example of functional skills.
• Level 2 NVQs are equivalent to five GCSEs, whereas Level 7 NVQs are on par with a master’s degree.
• Certifications in a technical field, such as the British and European Certificate of Competence (BTEC), the City and Guilds Progress Award, etc.
• Possess relevant academic credentials, such as a Bachelor’s degree or higher, or a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), foundation degree, or the equivalent.

Internship vs Externship vs Apprenticeship

An Apprenticeship, vs externship vs internships all offer valuable work experience, but they differ in important ways. Here is how they differ.

#1. Category of Encounter

An Internship vs externship provides a different kind of experience than an apprenticeship would. An apprentice learns on the job by putting his or her abilities to practical use. Therefore, you learn more by doing the work yourself than by listening to lectures or watching videos.

Interns and externs often “ride shotgun” with workers to learn the ropes. You take down the employee’s duties and the components of their position at the business. Making copies and keeping minutes at meetings are two examples of minor administrative work you could do. Interns and externs provide valuable assistance to businesses while gaining valuable experience in a real-world setting.

#2. Reimbursement of Expenses

Paid apprenticeships are rarer than unpaid internships or externships. Apprentices receive compensation because of the value they bring to the firm almost immediately. Interns or externs, on the other hand, could learn more about the field than they contribute. They could be willing to work for experience or academic credit instead of cash. The length of an internship and the field it is in usually determine the intern’s compensation. An intern or extern in the field of engineering working on complex aerospace projects may, for instance, be compensated at a higher rate than a more broad intern at a marketing agency.

#3. Potential Employment

When interns and externs finish their programs, many of them are still in high school or college. Because of this, interns and externs usually only spend a few weeks or months working full-time at their respective positions. There is no assurance that completing an internship as opposed to vs an externship will lead to a full-time position with the company after graduation; nevertheless, you will make more professional connections and have a stronger resume.

On the other hand, apprenticeships are longer in duration and more comprehensive in their instruction. Apprentices often have the option of moving into higher-paying full-time positions once they’ve completed their training. Companies that have spent much in your training may be willing to pay a premium to ensure you remain employed.

#4. Progress in One’s Career

Interns, externs, and apprentices typically have distinct professional goals. Apprenticeship programs are often considered viable alternatives to higher education. The time commitment of some apprenticeships is comparable to that of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree program, making them viable alternatives to traditional higher education. In some cases, it’s possible to receive college credit while working toward an apprenticeship.

Furthermore, an externship vs an internship is great for recent high school or college grads who are interested in a certain field but haven’t decided on a professional path yet. They can get valuable experience and perspective by interning at several companies. Internships are a great way to get experience and build your résumé, and since most of them take place over the summer, it’s easy to fit them into your schedule.

Externship Medical Assistant

If you’re looking at becoming a medical assistant, you’ve probably heard of something called a “externship.” During an externship, you’ll observe healthcare professionals in action and learn from them. This entails watching them in action while they attend to patients and carry out other activities.

An externship or vs internship is a required part of medical assistant training in the majority of recognized programs. These externships for medical assistants are designed to provide you hands-on experience in the field. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to put your classroom learning of medical assisting to use in real-world settings.

What is a Medical Assistant Externship?

Think of your externship as a chance to get hands-on experience in the medical assistant field. You’ll spend time in the company of medical assistants and other medical personnel while you observe and ask questions. It’s possible that you’ll get some supervised practice with your talents, too. 

You can learn more about the several specializations available to medical assistants through an externship. It’s a terrific approach to figure out if the clinical or administrative side of medicine is more your cup of tea. In addition, it can guide your choice of future workplace culture.

An externship or vs internship can take place anywhere, as a medical assistant operates in a wide range of settings. Externships are available in a wide variety of healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practices, and more.

How Long Does an Externship Last for a Medical Assistant?

There will probably be a minimum number of hours you need to put in if you do an externship or an vs internship. A common sum is 100 hours. This is typically broken down into a set amount of hours per week, like 15 hours.  

If you do the math, an externship as a medical assistant should take you about two months to do. This, however, will change based on the specifics of the externship and the program.

An internship or vs externship is often completed during the final semester of a medical assistant degree at a community college. It will take a consistent time investment, say twelve hours per week.

Many externships require you to work alongside your academic schedule. However, in other cases, you may not begin your externship or vs internship until after you have finished your classes.

Duties During a Medical Assistant Externship vs Internship

Although your externship will primarily consist of seeing medical assistants in action, you will be expected to take on certain responsibilities.  

• Inquire about things. An externship or vs internship requires your full and active engagement. In order to learn more about the medical assisting field, it is helpful to ask questions. 
• Putting up the necessary time and effort. Because of the time commitment involved in an externship vs internship, it is essential that you meet all of the requirements in order to reap the full benefits of the experience. 
• Supporting the work of medical assistants. You will have the chance to work with medical assistants in a variety of clinical and administrative capacities, but under close supervision.

Advantages From an Externship vs Internship as a Medical Assistant

A medical assistant externship will help you in your studies and your career. Among the many advantages of an externship are:

#1. Learning From Actual Patient Care in a Real-World Setting

A medical assistant’s ability to connect with patients is crucial. However, it is extremely difficult to replicate the experience of interacting with a patient in a classroom context. You can hone your communication abilities in preparation for the workforce by participating in an externship vs internship. 

#2. Choosing Whether or Not to Pursue This Line of Career

An externship or internship is a great way to try out the field of medical assistant and see whether it’s a good fit for you. If you’re interested in becoming a medical assistant, reading about the roles and experiences of others is helpful, but shadowing an assistant in action will give you insights you wouldn’t receive from books.

#3. Engaging in Professional Conversation and Networking

An externship and vs internship is a great way to expand your professional network and learn more about your chosen field. Effective teamwork skills are crucial in the healthcare industry. Job seekers can greatly benefit from engaging in networking activities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an externship is an excellent opportunity to get knowledge and experience in a certain field related to business, among the many other advantages. On the other hand,  internships are also a great way for students to get practical experience that can help them land a job after graduation.

Externship vs. Internship FAQs

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Reference

• nscs.org
• bestcolleges.com
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• diffen.com
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• skilledtradescollege.ca
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