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The rise of virtual internships is reshaping how students and early-career professionals connect with global work opportunities. This innovative approach allows individuals to gain practical experience remotely, breaking down traditional barriers and opening new doors to diverse industries and companies.
One company leading this shift is Virtual Internships, an organization focused on linking students with host companies across the globe without the need for physical presence. Katina, the CFO of Virtual Internships, provides insights into how the company has grown by offering remote internships. "Our mission is to bridge the gap between education and the workplace," Katina explains, highlighting how this method brings professional opportunities to those starting or transitioning in their careers by offering internships that can be done entirely online.
The Beginning Of Virtual Internships
Founded by two British entrepreneurs, Dan Niven and Ed Holroyd Pearce, Virtual Internships was born from their initial work with CRCC Asia, a company organizing in-person internships. They soon recognized the potential for virtual internships, launching the concept in 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic gave their business an unexpected boost, as travel restrictions forced educational institutions to seek online alternatives for their students' practical work experiences.
This forward-thinking model allowed Virtual Internships to take advantage of the growing demand for remote work placements. With strong ties to thousands of host companies globally, the organization was ready to respond to the changing needs of both students and educational institutions.
How The Program Operates
Virtual Internships connects learners with companies in a wide range of sectors. The top fields include engineering, computer science, finance, and general business. Over 70% of these internships are international, offering students the chance to work with teams across borders, which enhances their ability to operate in a globalized workforce. Instead of selecting a location, most interns prioritize career fields when choosing their placements.
One significant advantage of Virtual Internships is the guarantee of placement. In contrast to the competitive and uncertain process of traditional internships, this platform ensures every enrolled participant secures a spot with a company. This feature is particularly beneficial for students who might not have access to established networks or high-profile universities. The program opens up access to opportunities that would otherwise be difficult to obtain.
Expanding Access To Careers
Virtual Internships aims to make internships at leading companies accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or location. As Katina points out, many students face significant challenges in securing internships due to their limited connections or lack of prestigious institutional affiliations. By offering remote placements, Virtual Internships levels the playing field, giving everyone the chance to gain valuable work experience without needing to relocate.
The program has already placed nearly 9,000 students in internships, but the potential is much greater. Virtual Internships can serve over 100,000 participants at any given time, and its ability to guarantee placement sets it apart from traditional models, which often leave students without a work experience opportunity. The platform has also proven beneficial for host companies, as it connects them with a diverse pool of global talent. Around 25% of interns are offered extended placements or full-time roles after completing their internships.
Adapting To A New Work Environment
While the COVID-19 pandemic initially increased demand for virtual internships, the shift toward remote and hybrid work has remained strong even as travel restrictions have lifted. Many companies now recognize that remote work is not just a temporary solution but a permanent change in how the workforce operates. Virtual Internships has capitalized on this ongoing trend, with many companies continuing to seek global talent for remote roles.
“The trend of remote work is here to stay,” Katina explains. Many fields, such as engineering and technology, are particularly suited to this model, as companies often face challenges in finding specialized talent locally. Virtual internships provide a flexible solution, allowing businesses to access a broader talent pool without geographical limitations.
Challenges And Opportunities In Managing A Global Operation
Running a global operation like Virtual Internships comes with unique challenges, particularly when it comes to managing teams across multiple regions. Katina shares insights into how the organization has built a skilled team in Vietnam, where the company’s back office and compliance operations are based. The attention to detail required by local regulations has helped develop a highly capable workforce, particularly in fields like accounting and operations.
While managing teams across different time zones and legal frameworks can be complex, it also offers significant advantages. The Vietnam-based team has shown a strong aptitude for handling global tasks, from understanding international accounting standards to working effectively with colleagues and clients from around the world. This flexibility and global mindset are essential for the company’s continued growth.