What’s the value of taking Coursera courses when applying for internships?
I’m considering enrolling in some coding courses and advanced Accounting classes on Coursera.
I came across a comment on this subreddit suggesting that “anything widely available and accessible holds little weight on your CV.”
Still, I’m curious about how much having these Coursera courses on my CV and LinkedIn could set me apart when applying for internships and graduate programs to kickstart my career. What do you all think?
One response
Taking Coursera courses can definitely be beneficial when applying for internships, especially if you choose courses that are relevant to the position you’re interested in. Here are a few points to consider:
Skill Development: Completing coding and advanced Accounting courses can help you build essential skills that are directly applicable to many internship roles. This can give you a practical edge in interviews.
Demonstrating Initiative: Pursuing online courses shows prospective employers that you’re proactive about your learning and development. It signals that you’re committed to enhancing your skills beyond traditional education.
Filling Gaps: If you’re lacking experience in a certain area or if your academic background doesn’t fully align with the job requirements, these courses can help bridge that gap and make your application more competitive.
Networking Opportunities: Many courses on Coursera offer forums and peer interactions, which can help you connect with others in your field and expand your professional network.
LinkedIn Visibility: Adding completed courses to your LinkedIn profile can make your profile more robust and may catch the eye of recruiters looking for candidates with specific skills.
That said, it’s essential to frame these courses correctly in your CV. Highlight specific projects or skills you’ve gained from them, and try to balance them with other experiences like internships, volunteer work, or relevant projects. While online courses may not carry the same weight as formal education or direct experience, they can certainly enhance your profile if presented well.