Considering Delaying Graduation for a Business Management Internship?
Hey everyone! Just wanted to give you an update on a post I shared a few weeks back. As a junior at a non-target school, I managed to secure a management internship for Summer 2026. While it may not be in finance, I recognize it’s a valuable opportunity.
However, accepting this internship means I won’t graduate on schedule since I had planned to take summer classes. This would add an extra semester to my time at university. To make the most of it, I’m also considering taking my FINRA SIE exam to bolster my experience as I begin my second junior year.
On the bright side, I don’t have much student debt, thanks to starting my education at community college, which is a significant advantage. I appreciate any thoughts or advice on this decision! Thanks!
One response
That sounds like a great opportunity! Delaying graduation to gain experience in a management internship can be a smart move, especially if you’re able to supplement that with the FINRA SIE exam. Here are a few things to consider:
Work Experience: Real-world experience is invaluable. An internship can help you develop skills, expand your network, and make you more marketable after graduation. Even if it’s not directly in finance, management experience can be incredibly beneficial in any career path.
Networking Opportunities: Internships can provide you with crucial industry connections. Building relationships with professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities down the line, especially if you decide to transition into finance later.
Cost of Education: Given that you don’t have much student debt, taking an extra semester may be manageable financially. Just ensure you evaluate the potential costs versus the benefits of the internship and getting additional qualifications.
Future Goals: Consider your long-term career goals. If you still want to work in finance, the SIE exam will add value to your resume. It may also help you pivot into finance roles in the future, especially if you gain good experience during your internship.
Summer Classes: If you do decide to take the internship and delay graduation, look into whether you can take any courses online or during the semester to help you stay on track with your degree progress.
Ultimately, it sounds like a good decision to pursue the internship, but weigh all factors carefully to ensure it aligns with your career aspirations. Good luck!