The New Era | Education and Internships for Adult Learners by Mia Brown

Are you currently working, but you feel like you want to explore new career possibilities? Or do you like your current profession but are looking for ways to get a salary increase, a promotion, or both? The best way to do that is to earn an MBA. 

What is an MBA?

An MBA is a Master's in Business Administration. As we’ve mentioned before, having an MBA degree is an excellent way to increase your present work and managerial skills. 

Why should I get an MBA?

Those who are MBA holders have countless opportunities waiting for them. Think of getting an MBA as your key to unlocking the next steps of your career growth. You see, once you graduate, you will have learned new skills regarding business administration. That degree shows that you have both the ability and ambition to go far. Companies will be more than willing to take a chance on you for higher-paying positions. If you look at plenty of high-paying jobs, you’ll often find that MBA graduates are preferred.

And if ever you want to try a different career path than the one you’re on, getting an MBA helps. Many opportunities mean many different available jobs. You might be an accountant now, but you will have the skills for other occupations once you get that degree. Want to be a marketing manager or maybe even run your own future business? You will be fully equipped with the MBA.

How do I apply my learnings from my MBA?

Now we know what you’re thinking: An MBA sounds good and all, but it’s time-consuming and can be very expensive. How can you be sure that you’ll be able to apply what you’ve learned in your MBA program?

The best way to do that is to enter an internship for your field of study. An internship usually lasts from eight to twelve weeks. That’s more than enough time for you to immerse yourself in your chosen field.

What are the benefits of an internship?

Many MBA students are making career pivots to different industries or functions. Therefore, internships will help you apply what you learn in the MBA program. You will also be able to develop new capabilities as well as enhance your present ones.

Also, internships let you find out if what you're interested in is really for you. If it’s not, it won’t be too late for you to shift your field of study. At least you’ll already know before you get a full-time job.

Other benefits of interning are the following: 

• Successfully completing an internship may result in a new job offer.

• You can make new connections for job referrals.

• You can get work experience in your field to use in your resume for a better salary.

• If you do a good job, you can use your supervisor as a job reference if ever you decide to apply at a different company.

Will I have time for an internship?

Working adults such as yourself may think an internship just doesn't make sense. After all, you are already working and studying. How will you find the time to complete what is basically a second job?

Not to worry. There are already companies offering more flexible terms for internships. You can complete your apprenticeship at your own pace and in the comfort of your home. If the first few companies you research don't offer this, don't be discouraged. Keep searching, and you're sure to find the one for you. 

Won't people think I'm too old for an internship?

Not really. If you read this story from Learn More Indiana, you can see that Shayla is like you. She was already working, but she was also studying something new. She decided to pursue an internship to learn more. It was daunting for her to think about interning at her age. However, she reminded herself that she really wanted to be there.

And because she did, Shayla got a happy ending. She completed an internship that yielded an impactful experience for her. And that's because, despite her nerves, she went for it. 

In the same way, don't focus on your age. Just go for it!

How do I secure an internship for myself?

Being interested in an internship doesn't guarantee one. You won't exactly be alone in your pursuit. You'll be competing for limited placements against other students, both young and old. So how do you ensure you get selected?

According to a post on how to write a cover letter for an internship, employers are looking for specific things:

• The ability to communicate effectively

• Evidence of initiative

• Flexibility and adaptability in all situations

If you can convey these in your cover letter and your resume, you're more likely to stand out. And with your working experience, you have proof of developed skills in the workplace.

Get your MBA at LIGS University.

Getting an MBA is important for better career opportunities, especially if you are planning a career pivot. And if you want to apply what you’re learning, get an internship.

Want an MBA that is adjusted to your schedule and lets you apply what you’ve learned immediately? Check out LIGS University’s interactive online MBA program. You can enroll anytime, and the program is adjustable to your needs and goals.

Contact us today to learn more about this affordable, high-quality program.

Author: Mia Brown