Why are internships important?

In the 2007-2008 edition of "Recruiting Trends" conducted by Michigan State University, employers who were surveyed reported that:

• 70 to 75 percent of their new hires had internship experience.
  
  
• 75 percent used internships and co-ops as a part of their employee development and training program.
  
  
• 75 percent will pay their interns.
  
  
• 50 percent of the respondents stated that graduating seniors entering the workforce should have at least one internship experience.  The other 50 percent believe students should have at least two internships, and 10 percent reported they would like to see candidates with three internships.

In a tight job market, graduates who offer more relevant experience have the greatest leverage with employers and are typically able to hit the ground running as new hires.