"Trying to See If Working Virtually Suits Me": The Experiences of Students in Virtual Internships

• In Event: Experiential Learning in Trying Times

Abstract

This study utilizes a phenomenological approach to understand the experiences of 10 undergraduate students engaged in virtual internships. Six themes emerged from the analysis: initial concern about virtual work, the salience of the relationship with one’s internship supervisor, lack of exposure to office dynamics, motivation and time management concerns, perceived benefit of developing a work-life balance, and perception of growth and development during the internship. This study contributes to the literature by exploring the lived experiences of 10 undergraduate students engaged in virtual internships, examining the benefits and challenges that they experienced.

Author

• Ian Baker, Michigan State University