America celebrates National Intern Day on the last Thursday in July. This year, it takes place on July 31. Interns have always been an integral part of the American workforce. Interns are often trusted with responsibilities such as filing important documents, making calls, or assisting someone who’s been in the field for a long time — essentially learning the ropes of the business. An intern is typically someone who’s still in college or has recently graduated. Although it’s not entirely uncommon to see school children taking up internships either, as long as the minimum working age is observed. Along with a source of income, an internship is a great way to learn more about the industry that one might be interested in. A good internship may also be a great stepping stone to a fulfilling career.
History of National Intern Day
National Intern Day is a holiday created by WayUp. The day is dedicated to recognizing, acknowledging the efforts of, and celebrating the future leaders of the world. WayUp held its first National Intern Day celebrations in 2017 to bring into the limelight the challenges and inequalities that entry-level candidates and interns regularly face in the workforce. WayUp also aims to create awareness of how internships are absolutely essential for acquiring valuable experience and exposure. People often tend to dismiss internships as ornamentation on resumes but they are a real opportunity to create a difference in the workforce for years to come.
While the pressure is always on young people to find suitable internships, there needs to be a change in how interns are treated when they are finally hired. Research and millions of data points show that the biggest change that an employer can make is to start paying interns, and a sustainable amount at that. Paid internships don’t just make the workplace more equal but encourage interns to perform their roles to the best of their potential. Paid opportunities also allow those from weaker financial backgrounds and minorities to explore more diverse career options. National Intern Day was started to help companies see how investing in a diverse internship program can be an investment in the future of their company. Since 2017, WayUp has helped thousands of employers across the country celebrate their interns and recognize their contribution to the growth of the company. On this day, WayUp’s coveted 100 Top Internship Programs List showcases the employers who have gone above and beyond for their interns. Today’s interns are tomorrow’s leaders and how the company treats them makes a direct impact on the American workforce.
National Intern Day timeline
The act establishes the right to minimum wage and overtime.
JJ Fliegelman and Liz Wessel start WayUp in New York as a way of finding jobs for college students and recent graduates.
Robert De Niro and Anne Hathway’s blockbuster hit, “The Intern,” is released.
62% of the class of 2017 students have interned at some point during
National Intern Day FAQs
What is the meaning of an internship?
An internship is a period during which a person serves as an intern. It is an official or formal program to provide practical experience for beginners in their chosen field.
How long does an internship last?
Internships are most commonly semester-length. This period of internship is easy to arrange since it doesn’t conflict with a college student’s schedule.
What is a good internship salary?
The average hourly wage rate for a bachelor’s degree intern is $16.26. And generally speaking — the higher the degree, the higher the internship wage.
National Intern Day Activities
Ask your workplace to hire interns
You must remember how the initial days of work struggles felt like. Ask your workplaces to hire interns and advertise for paid internship positions. Remember to make this an equal opportunity program
Thank your interns
Do you already work with interns? Then National Intern Day is a good day to thank them for their contribution to the growth of the company. You can also treat them to lunch or a movie.
Find an internship opportunity for someone
Know someone who’s looking for an internship opportunity? Help them in their search for it. You can also assist them in preparing for an interview, improving their CV, or simply by being an encouraging friend.
5 Facts About Colleges That Will Blow Your Mind
College is expensive
On average, Americans pay $30,000 to $60,000 per year for their college program.
More females go to college than males
775,000 male students and 1,575,000 female students enroll in college each year.
Student debt is growing fast
In 2018, the average graduate left college with $37,172 in debt.
Ivy Leagues remain highly competitive
Only 0.4% of undergraduates attend an Ivy League school.
Tuition used to be really cheap
In 1804, tuition at Brown University cost only $5.
Why We Love National Intern Day
It celebrates future leaders
Interns make for tomorrow’s future leaders. On this day we celebrate the next generation of changemakers.
It celebrates hard work
National Intern Day also celebrates the efforts and hard work of the interns. It is a great day to acknowledge how these young people make the work culture of a company more diverse and rich.
It celebrates an equal future
Internships are a great way to create opportunities for those who have been historically underrepresented. Equal employment opportunities ensure that we aim for a more harmonious future.
National Intern Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | July 28 | Thursday |
| 2023 | July 27 | Thursday |
| 2024 | July 25 | Thursday |
| 2025 | July 31 | Thursday |
| 2026 | July 30 | Thursday |
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