Overinterning

Overinterning refers to the practice of accepting and holding multiple internships simultaneously or consecutively, often exceeding what is realistically manageable or beneficial for the individual. This can occur for various reasons, including a desire to gain a wide range of experiences, a perceived need to fill resume gaps, or pressure to secure future employment opportunities.

While internships are valuable for career development, overinterning can lead to diminished returns. Interns juggling too many commitments may struggle to dedicate sufficient time and effort to each role. This can result in a superficial understanding of the work, a lack of meaningful contribution, and ultimately, less impactful experiences to highlight on a resume. Furthermore, the stress and burnout associated with overextending oneself can negatively impact performance and well-being.

The benefits of an internship are often tied to the depth of engagement and the quality of learning. By spreading oneself too thin, an individual might miss opportunities for deeper skill development, networking, and mentorship. A more focused approach, involving one or two well-chosen internships, often allows for greater immersion and a more significant impact on both the intern's learning and the host organization's projects. It is generally advisable for individuals to carefully consider their capacity and learning goals when deciding on the number and type of internships to pursue.