The Big Read in Brief: Navigating the Pitfalls of Internship Stacking

In the span of his university years, Mr. Andrew William meticulously crafted his schedule to optimize his time outside of classes, prioritizing internships. With a strategic approach, the 23-year-old condensed his classes into a few days, liberating the rest of the week for practical work experiences. Weekends became dedicated to furthering his career through multiple roles with startups and consultancy firms, often managing dual internships alongside his communication studies at Nanyang Technological University. By the time he graduated in 2022, this Singaporean permanent resident had amassed a total of 10 internships, driven not solely by academic requirements but by personal initiative and ambition.

Mr. William's path reflects a trend among today's students who are increasingly participating in what some describe as the "rat race" for internships long before completing their formal education. These internships serve multiple purposes beyond academic credit, providing invaluable real-world experience, supplementing income, and bolstering job prospects post-graduation. Networking through his school's consultancy club and competing in case competitions were pivotal strategies that enabled Mr. William to secure these opportunities, illustrating a proactive approach to career preparation that resonates with many aspiring professionals in today's competitive job market.

As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, Mr. Andrew William's journey underscores the increasing importance placed on practical experiences alongside formal education. His story highlights a generation of students who are not just fulfilling academic requirements but actively seeking out diverse internship opportunities to gain a competitive edge in the job market. As universities and students alike adapt to these changing dynamics, the pursuit of multiple internships is becoming a strategic norm rather than an exception, reflecting a broader shift towards holistic career readiness and lifelong learning.