The graduate job market is incredibly competitive these days and a qualification just isn't enough to secure a position. If you think about it, every graduate applicant will have a degree and when you're competing with hundreds or even thousands of graduates for a limited number of jobs, it is important that you stand out from the crowd.

One of the best ways to make yourself more marketable and to increase your chances of securing a full-time position upon graduation is to gain experience working in an organization while studying at university -an internship!

Here are 4 reasons to Intern while at University.

1. Gain Industry Knowledge

For many students, university can be quite theoretical and an internship is a great way to be able to learn by being hands-on and apply what has been learnt in class to the real world. You'll gain first-hand industry experience from professionals you're working with and develop the skills required to work in the industry.

1. Career Exploration

Internships can provide you with the opportunity to sample your chosen career field early in your studies. This will allow you to observe the workplace and decide if a particular career matches expectations. Even if the internship experience was not what you expected, at the very least you will know that a particular field isn't for you and you can try something else.

1. Develop Interpersonal Skills

Internships will not only help you to develop the skills needed to work in a particular industry but will also provide interpersonal skills that are generally required to work effectively with others including:

• Communication (Verbal, Written and Presentation)
• Listening Skills
• Negotiation
• Problem Solving
• Decision Making

1. Make Professional Contacts

Most internships will enable to you work closely and develop professional working relationships with many people within the organization. Building your professional network is important and can potentially lead to referrals and recommendations that might land you a full-time position in the organization.  At the very least you could receive a great reference. References and referees will be invaluable when you are looking for a full-time job.

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Don't just leave an internship until your final year of study; the more internships you complete, the fuller your resume will become and the more attractive you will look to future employers!

Be sure to check out all of Cisco's University Programs.