Thai university students are facing significant challenges when trying to secure internships, largely due to demanding experience requirements set by employers. Many students find themselves applying to numerous companies, only to be met with silence or rejection. This dilemma creates frustration, especially for those who are on the brink of graduation and still needing relevant work experience.
One student, Thu Thuy, who is entering her final year at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, shared her struggles. "I sent my CV to many places; many job descriptions stated interns must have over 3 months experience or none at all, but when I received feedback, they simply said they wouldn’t continue because I didn’t meet the profession’s requirements," she explained, highlighting the paradox students encounter. Many employers are seeking candidates with experience, yet the students need internships to gain this experience.
Tram Anh, another fourth-year student majoring in Business Administration from the University of Finance and Marketing, expressed her frustration, stating, "I find the requirements set by some employers too high for interns; I feel frustrated and do not know what to do." She recounts how, due to her inability to schedule time around her university's internship requirements, she has been forced to seek out opportunities independently, often without success.
Expert opinions suggest this trend is driven by the competitive nature of the job market. Nguyen Hu Chien, human resources expert at Icon and Denim Joint Stock Company, stated, "Having interns with experience helps reduce training costs, time, and effort, hence some big corporations require interns to have experience." This expectation can put additional pressure on students who may already feel overwhelmed by their academic workloads.
The situation reflects larger systemic issues within the educational framework and labor market. Students often juggle coursework, job hunting, and internships simultaneously, which can lead to significant stress. The mounting pressure to perform academically, coupled with the necessity of securing internships, leaves little room for effective job searching. With many students unable to find suitable positions, the question arises of how they can effectively compete.
MSc. Vo Ngoc Nhon, Deputy Director of the Student Recruitment Center at Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, provided some guidance. "If possible, during your studies, clearly identify the companies you dream of interning and working for in the future, then learn about their needs to prepare yourself," he advised. By proactively seeking to understand the job market and developing relevant skills, students might gain a competitive edge.
Nhon emphasized the importance of networking as well, noting, "It's beneficial to reach out to companies of interest and inquire about opportunities, even if they aren't advertised. This can help create connections and potentially open doors." Such advice points toward the necessity for students to be proactive rather than reactive during their internship searches.
The mismatch between educational achievements and employer expectations is undoubtedly causing challenges for recent graduates, who may find themselves overwhelmed and underprepared. This situation is reminiscent of broader trends across many other sectors, wherein employers desire credentials and hands-on experience, yet the avenues for obtaining such experience remain limited.
Students must also maintain motivation, particularly when facing rejection. Many applications can lead to feelings of inadequacy, but it’s important for students to remain resilient. "Even if it feels discouraging, each application is practice for the next opportunity," Thuy reminded her peers.
The internship hunt is expected to remain increasingly competitive, but the conversations are already beginning to shift. Experts recognize the necessity for change; perhaps employers should reconsider their stringent experience requirements and look at the potential every candidate brings, regardless of their past work history.
It's clear the challenges students face during their internship searches reflect larger societal trends. Universities may need to support students through updates to curriculum or partnerships with industries, thereby prioritizing practical experience and skill development. The flexibility within internship requirements could provide students with equitable opportunities to gain the experience they need to transition successfully from the classroom to the workplace.
Moving forward, both students and employers have roles to play. By fostering discussions about internship expectations and job readiness, the educational system and workforce can work together toward more inclusive solutions. The resilience and adaptability of today’s students are commendable; with the right support, they can navigate the changing job environment effectively and build promising careers.