Internship Satisfaction

Abstract

The study is intended to explore features of good internship experience, what are the expectations of students regarding internships, and does internship satisfaction affect student’s willingness to work in the company in the future. Also, suggestions to CAC (Career Advising Center at Nazarbayev University), students and hiring companies are presented. Results of seven in-depth interviews of Nazarbayev University undergraduate junior and senior students were used in the study. It was revealed, that internship satisfaction reflects student’s willingness to work in the future in the company. Students who were satisfied with their internship experiences noted that their duties, requirements and tasks were well assigned and discussed from the first day; their communication and working style preferences met the company’s; they felt that they were contributing to the department’s work; their mentors were often open to provide assistance, and that they were acquiring something new and interesting. Suggestions of CAC and company staff were the main sources for finding an internship program for students.