Since we are on the subject of internships

[kdinser]

I need a few opinions on what to do this spring and summer.

I currently have a decent, part time job fixing computers and networks. The job does not pay well, but I'm able to meet my needs of food, shelter, and some meager entertainment. It's also important to me that I don't hate going to work and I have an extremely flexible schedule. I'm single with 0 kids and I don't have a house to support. I'm about as, responsibility free, as you can get and I have parents that are willing to help me out finacially if I need it.

I was in school for a long time before dropping out and getting into the IT field. I'm 32 years old now and will be 33 in November. I'm planning on graduating with a degree in electrical engineering, maybe dual major in EE and CoE. I've taken every basic course required, English comp, humanities, pol sci, econ...and on, and on, and on, so the only classes I have left, after this semester, are my engineering classes and a couple math classes.

Here's where I need some help, I've got 3 paths to choose from.

1. I can keep working where I'm at. Go to school full time, year round, and finish in 2 to 2.5 years.

2. I can try and do internships during the summers, but this moves my graduation date to about 3 to 3.5 years. Also, how far into the engineering courses do you usually need to get before companies would be willing to hire you as an intern? Last but not least, given my advanced age, do you think it would be best for me to get some internship experience or to graduate ASP?

3. I could also quite working, do some side work, get student loans, and probably finish school in 2 years or maybe even less.

Thanks for any input.

 

[hhegab]

It's great that you have a flexible job and a supportive family, but it's important to consider your long-term goals and how internships can help you achieve them. Here are some things to consider:

1. Internships provide valuable hands-on experience: While your current job may provide some technical skills, internships allow you to apply what you have learned in the classroom to real-life projects and challenges. This experience is highly valued by employers and will make you a more competitive job candidate upon graduation.

2. Networking opportunities: Internships also give you the chance to network with professionals in your field. Building relationships with people in the industry can lead to job opportunities and references in the future.

3. Graduating with experience: Having internships on your resume can make you stand out to potential employers. It shows that you have not only the theoretical knowledge from your courses, but also practical skills and experience.

4. Consider the timing: While graduating sooner may seem appealing, it's important to think about the value of taking your time to gain experience through internships. Graduating later with internships under your belt may actually make you a more attractive job candidate and potentially lead to higher paying job offers.

5. Consider your financial situation: Taking out student loans may allow you to finish school faster, but it's important to carefully consider the financial implications. Can you afford to take on more debt? Will the potential increase in salary after graduation be enough to offset the cost of the loans?

Ultimately, the decision is yours and will depend on your personal goals and priorities. It may be beneficial to speak with a career counselor or academic advisor to weigh your options and make an informed decision. Good luck!