Internships and Part-Time Jobs: Sure Path to Work

Internships and Part-Time Jobs: A Sure Path to Your First Job

Educational experts in the United Arab Emirates agree that internship programs and part-time jobs play a crucial role in successfully launching a young career. More and more universities and professional institutions emphasize that it is not enough to gain theoretical knowledge only; the labor market expects real experience and practical skills - even to land the first job.

Without practical experience, it is difficult to succeed

According to most university representatives, students who spend four years without engaging in any kind of internship, part-time job, or volunteer activity find it much harder to secure employment as fresh graduates. Higher education institutions naturally intend to support students' job placement, for instance, by offering resume-writing advice or internship suggestions. However, it is most important for students to actively seek these opportunities themselves - ideally from the first year.

The advantage of real work experience is not only reflected in job placement but also transforms their approach to their studies. Students better understand why what they are learning is important, become more conscious and focused, which in turn affects their performance.

Practical Examples – Mandatory Internship Programs

Several institutions in the UAE have already incorporated mandatory internships into their curricula. For example, Emirates Aviation University students must complete an entire semester of internship with one of the departments of Emirates Airlines, depending on their specialization. This way, students get firsthand experience of the aviation world and can develop their skills in a real working environment.

At Dubai College of Tourism, a six-week internship awaits students at the end of the first year, followed by a mandatory four-month internship each subsequent year. According to instructors, this is one of the most important elements of education because it helps students understand how to apply classroom knowledge in practice.

Experiences show that after internships, students become more motivated, take their studies more seriously, improve their professional attitude, and begin to see how a career is built.

Soft Skills: Key to Job Interviews

In addition to technical knowledge, "soft skills" – such as public speaking, effective communication, interview preparation, or resume writing – also play a prominent role. Several institutions recognize that future success for students may depend on how comfortable they feel in the world of work, so these skills are developed starting in the first semester.

These often connect with volunteer programs where students can participate in the city's largest events - such as Formula 1, Dubai Fashion Week, or the Dubai World Cup. Here, they can gain experience in real client service, hospitality, or logistics situations. It is not uncommon for these experiences to directly lead to job offers, sometimes from the same organizer.

Conclusion: A Step Ahead with Conscious Career Building

Dubai and the entire UAE job market is extremely competitive, but it also offers a wealth of opportunities for those who start preparing in time. Internship positions and part-time jobs provide not only professional experience but also connections – and not least confidence. Those who become familiar with the world of work during their university years take the first step more easily in the fierce competition when it comes to finding a job after graduation.