She Strengthens

The Unpaid Internship Myth: How I Found Value in a Non-Traditional Opportunity

As a college student, I’ve learned that making ends meet is a daily struggle. With tuition fees skyrocketing and living expenses piling up, it’s no wonder many of us feel like we’re drowning in debt. So, when I landed an unpaid internship this summer, I thought I was making a huge mistake.

The Initial Disappointment

I had always envisioned myself scoring a high-paying internship, just like my friends who stayed in-state for college. But, as I scoured through internships.com, I realized that many opportunities in my field were unpaid. To make matters worse, my university didn’t allow freshmen to take internships for credit, which meant I’d have to foot the bill for transportation and living expenses myself.

A Game-Changing Opportunity

That’s when I stumbled upon a website focused on local investment, and I decided to take a chance. The creator of the website, a Jersey-born Boston University alumna, responded to my application and we met for an interview. What I didn’t know at the time was that she was a big shot in the industry, having worked for Businessweek and the New York Times.

Finding Value in the Unpaid Internship

Fast-forward to today, and I’m grateful for that chance encounter. Despite the initial disappointment, I’ve discovered that this unpaid internship has been a blessing in disguise. My boss is flexible, which means I only need to travel into the city twice a week, saving me a small fortune on transportation costs. We also meet for casual meals or coffee, which not only helps our working relationship but also saves me money.

The Real Benefits

The real value of this internship lies in the connections I’ve made and the skills I’ve acquired. I’ve gained experience in business journalism, covering investment groups and start-ups, which aligns perfectly with my career goals. I’ve also received invaluable advice and mentorship from my boss, which has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

A New Perspective

Looking back, I realize that my initial skepticism about unpaid internships was misplaced. It’s not about the money; it’s about the opportunities, connections, and experiences you gain. In fact, I’ve learned that some paid internships can be dull and unfulfilling, while unpaid ones can offer a wealth of benefits.

The Magic of Bylines

And, of course, there’s the added bonus of seeing my name in print. Those bylines are still magical, but now they represent so much more than just a paycheck. They symbolize the hard work, dedication, and passion I’ve put into my craft.

In the end, I’m grateful for this unpaid internship, which has taught me that sometimes, the most valuable experiences in life come without a price tag.