At The Washington Center (TWC), we know internships are not just a box to check—they are a foundational step toward your career. But as internships have become more competitive and the workplace continues to evolve, it’s crucial to approach your search strategically. Whether paid, supported through stipends, or unpaid, the value of an internship lies in how it aligns with your long-term goals.
The Shifting Internship Landscape
In recent years, we’ve seen significant progress toward equitable compensation. Many organizations now recognize the importance of supporting interns through stipends, hourly pay or other forms of financial assistance. At TWC, we’ve prioritized this as well—over 70% of our internship partners offer compensation or support, such as transportation or lunch stipends.
However, the overall availability of internships has decreased due to several factors:
- The Rise of Hybrid and Virtual Workplaces
While virtual work has opened opportunities for remote internships, it has also led to a reduction in entry-level roles as companies restructure (Forbes). - AI Disrupting Entry-Level Jobs
Advancements in artificial intelligence and automation have replaced some traditional tasks performed by interns and entry-level employees (WorkLife). A recent study found that 78% of hiring managers predict AI could further reduce internships and entry-level positions in the coming years (SHRM). - Increasing Demand for Internships
In 2023, nearly 8 million students sought internships, yet only half were able to secure one due to limited supply (Inside Higher Ed). This imbalance has made internships more competitive than ever.
While these changes may sound daunting, they highlight why focusing on what truly matters in your internship experience is essential.
Types of Financial Support Available Today
When exploring internships, it’s important to understand the types of financial support that exist:
- Hourly Wages: Direct payment for time worked.
- Stipends: Fixed sums to cover expenses, ranging from $500 to $5,000.
- Transportation or Meal Support: Monthly passes for public transportation, meal stipends or reimbursements.
- Unpaid Internships: These can still offer significant professional value if they align with your long-term goals.
At TWC, we vet every internship opportunity to ensure it provides meaningful, hands-on experience, regardless of financial support.
How to Assess the Right Internship for You
Given the evolving landscape, it’s important to evaluate opportunities based on both short-term needs and long-term impact. Ask yourself:
- Does this internship align with my career goals? Will the experience help you develop relevant skills, connections, and insights?
- Can I make this work financially? Consider alternative support options like savings or scholarships.
- What other benefits does the internship offer? Opportunities for mentorship, networking, and skill-building can be just as valuable as compensation.
Your Decision Matters
Choosing whether to pursue a paid or unpaid internship is a personal decision that depends on your goals, resources and priorities. Both options can offer valuable experiences, but it’s important to carefully assess which opportunity best fits your needs.
Example: A Student’s Dilemma
Sarah is a junior majoring in Environmental Science at the University of Maryland. She dreams of working in renewable energy and hopes to secure a career in sustainable urban planning. During her search, Sarah receives two offers through TWC:

Sarah’s Decision-Making Process
After reflecting on her goals, Sarah considers:
Short-Term Needs: Financial viability is important. She balances the costs of an unpaid role against her resources and determines what’s manageable.
Long-Term Goals: The unpaid internship aligns closely with her career aspirations, but she knows the paid role also provides transferable skills and industry exposure.
Value of Experience: Ultimately, Sarah prioritizes experience that will help her achieve her long-term goals but keeps in mind that her decision must be realistic for her circumstances.
Outcome
Both internships would provide Sarah with valuable skills, connections and experience to move her career forward. Whether paid or unpaid, the right opportunity depends on balancing career alignment with personal needs.
The Bottom Line: Start With Purpose
Start your search with clarity, purpose and a clear understanding of what matters most to you. While compensation is important, it’s equally vital to assess how an opportunity aligns with your goals and contributes to your development. We’ve created an Internship Evaluation Matrix to help you compare internship options, weigh key criteria and make a choice that aligns with your goals.
At TWC, we’re committed to helping you explore all options and identify the path that works for you. Internships, whether paid or unpaid, should provide meaningful skills, connections and experience to support your career growth.
We’re here to help you take the first step. Our Academic Internship Program combines personalized career coaching, hands-on experience, professional development and access to a dynamic network of driven peers and professionals in Washington, D.C.—a city where ideas turn into action. You’ll return to campus with a clear plan for success after graduation and the tools to build a thriving career.
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