Saad Sahil is an education entrepreneur with over 12 years of experience in teaching, school leadership, large-scale project management, and teacher training. With hands-on experience with schools in the U.S. and Pakistan, Saad has supported thousands of teachers and over 250,000 students in a Pre-K to Grey education space.
As a seasoned entrepreneur, Saad is passionate about creating and scaling ventures that positively impact society through education and has been the founder of multiple successful ventures in various industries. He holds a Master’s in Education Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from Lahore University of Management Sciences. He is currently based in Los Angeles, CA pursuing his Doctorate in Educational Management.
This blog will cover the following aspects:
- Part 1: My Personal Experiences and Gains
- Part 2: Guidance for Students
- Part 3: Advice for Parents
- Variety of Industries for Internships
Part 1: My Personal Experiences and Gains
Internships have been an integral part of my educational and professional journey. I've had the opportunity to intern over 20 times, starting as early as grade nine. My first internship was with an organization my father's friend owned, which raised funds for nonprofits. It was convenient and a good starting point to get my hands dirty. However, I quickly realized how unprepared I was to work in an office. I had no idea how to dress professionally, communicate effectively or/and be independent. Despite the initial challenges, this experience was invaluable. It taught me how to interact with professionals and understand their daily routines.
One of the most memorable tasks I faced was counting letterheads in a closet—a seemingly simple task that turned quite difficult because I didn't approach it strategically. This experience taught me the importance of efficiency and problem-solving, skills that I carried forward into future roles.
Internship Experience
The following year, I interned at a distribution company, where I got hands-on experience managing orders and ensuring they were fulfilled. It was a significantly different role from my first internship and provided a new perspective on the operational side of a business. After interning in hospitals and nonprofits, I was able to intern in a different city (Karachi) and even abroad (Sri Lanka). Each internship offered unique insights and skills that have shaped my career path. Studies show that college graduates with internship experience tend to secure higher-paying jobs after graduation than those without internships. (Source: Strada Education)
Internships were what led to my acceptance into the LUMS MBA program. During my interview, they asked me, "Do you have any work experience?" I confidently responded, "I have internship experience" and laid down all my internships from the first to the last. This comprehensive list of internships showcased my dedication and hands-on learning, ultimately helping me secure a spot in the program.
My experience with Tetra Pak is particularly memorable because I had the unique opportunity to intern there twice—once during my O-Levels and again during my MBA. Both experiences were invaluable, but the way I secured them differed significantly.
My first internship came about thanks to my father’s connection, while the second was a result of the network I built during my initial stint. This highlights the crucial role of networking and socializing that internships cultivate. During my first internship, I worked in the Marketing and Environmental Department where I learned about environmental sustainability, the recycling process and its by-products. Additionally, I had the chance to visit various locations, immersing myself in different cultures. In my second internship, I was entrusted with an entire project to implement, opening up a whole new world of exploration for me. Each experience aligned with my academic journey and provided me with the opportunity for skill development and growth.
Importance and Benefits of Internships
The often-misquoted statement "jack of all trades, master of none" is actually an incomplete phrase. The correct statement is “jack of all trades and master of none, is still better than being master of one”.
Having a wide set of experiences allows you to apply skills in multiple settings to achieve success. When I moved to the U.S. for my Master's in Education Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Pennsylvania, I used the skills gained from my internships and business ventures to teach my cohort mates. These skills also helped me secure my first job in the U.S., assisting high school students in obtaining internships across various industries. Without my diverse internship experience, I wouldn't have been able to design a beneficial program for others. Graduates with internship experience report higher satisfaction with their first job, likely due to a better understanding of career fields and practical skill development. (Source: Strada Education)
My internships also enabled me to start multiple businesses. I understood how large organizations operated, and I replicated those processes for my startups. From starting a school to a dairy farm and an arts and culture organization, my varied internship experiences and network were crucial. Students can use internship experiences to enhance their ventures, apply real-life examples in the classroom, and boost their network for future opportunities.
Part 2: Guidance for Students
Reflecting on my journey, I have several pieces of advice for students embarking on their internship adventures.
Advice #1: Keep an Open Mind
Don't pigeonhole yourself into one industry or role. Explore various sectors like manufacturing, services, and non-profits, and take on different roles within those industries, such as HR, finance, and marketing. This approach will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate and help you identify your true interests and strengths.
For instance, I initially thought I wanted to pursue finance. However, after interning and seeing the day-to-day responsibilities of accountants and CFOs, I realized it wasn't for me. This realization prompted me to pursue an MBA instead. If I had committed to finance without these experiences, pivoting later would have been much more challenging.
It's also essential to connect your internship experiences with your academic studies. The practical skills you develop during internships, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, are invaluable. For example, tasks I performed during internships often related directly to my academic projects, enhancing my understanding and performance in both areas.
Advice #2: Maintain the Right Mindset and Attitude
Be proactive in your learning, ask questions, and seek feedback. Adaptability and resilience are crucial, as you'll encounter new challenges. Also, remember it’s OKAY to make mistakes! —it's all part of the learning process.
Advice #3: Networking is KEY
Build a network of professional contacts during your internships, as these connections can be incredibly valuable for future job opportunities and career advice. Reflect regularly on your experiences, set specific, measurable goals, and strive for continuous improvement.
Advice #4: Future Work
One crucial point to consider is the future of work. The job market is rapidly evolving due to technological advancements like AI and automation. What you learn from books represents past knowledge, while internships provide insights into the present. To be successful, you need to focus on acquiring future-ready skills such as digital literacy, data analysis, creative thinking, and emotional intelligence. Staying updated with emerging technologies and continuous learning is essential.
When applying to universities, remember that your internships and experiences will set you apart from other applicants. Thousands of students will have completed their O-Levels/IGCSE and A-Levels, but your unique experiences and holistic personal development will make you stand out.
Advice #5: Not ALL Internships are Equal
The quality and relevance of internships can vary. Choose internships that align with your interests and career goals, and seek positions that offer meaningful work and growth opportunities. Some internships will be more beneficial than others, and it's essential to discern which ones will provide the best learning experiences for you.
Advice #6: Don't have Self-Pity
Self-pity is a common occurrence when you see your friends enjoying their summers while you work. Initially, it may feel unfair, but over time, the real-world experiences gained from internships will set you apart. My conversations were always more practical and grounded because I had real-world experiences to back up what I was saying. One summer, I wanted to quit internships and enjoy my break, but I persevered and that internship turned out to be one of the most valuable ones. It’s difficult, but resist the urge to feel sorry for yourself because you're not getting a traditional summer vacation.
Part 3: Advice for Parents
Parents play a crucial role in their children's internship journeys. It's important to give them the space to grow and experience things independently. For example, don't micromanage tasks like waking up on time or getting to the office. These routines will develop naturally as your child adjusts to the working environment.
Advice #1: Focus More on What Your Child Is Learning
Engage in deeper conversations when they're ready, rather than forcing discussions. Practical suggestions like having an end-of-the-week chat can be incredibly beneficial. This allows your child to reflect on their experiences, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for the coming week.
Advice #2: Being a Supportive Guide
Being a supportive guide rather than a nag is essential. Encourage, and provide practical advice, and celebrate their achievements. Open communication is key to creating a positive environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their experiences.
Advice #3: Ask Meaningful Questions
Encourage deeper thinking and reflection. Instead of generic questions like "How was your day?" ask, "What was the best thing you learned today?" or "How is this related to what you've been studying?" These questions help your child connect their internship experiences with their academic learning and foster higher-order thinking skills.
Advice #4: Remain Positive and Unbiased
Avoid letting personal biases about certain professions or roles influence your child's career choices. Even if you believe a particular job, like sales, isn't worthwhile, your child might find it suits their personality and skills. Let them explore different fields and gain their own experiences without imposing opinions.
Advice #5: Encourage Your Children Not To Give Up!
It's going to be tough because they've never worked a day in their life. Remind them that internships are temporary experiences—typically lasting four to six weeks — and perseverance is key. However, ensure they are safe and supported throughout their journey.
It's also important to understand that internships add significant value even when a child is young. During the developing phase, such as entering O-Levels, internships can help students decide on subjects to pick and future career paths, providing a better idea than guessing. Internships are crucial for boosting CVs and enhancing future learning. The ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is vital for future changes in the workplace. Each new setting teaches something new, helping students adapt quickly to various environments, which benefits them in future roles.
For example, the first time I went for an internship, it took me three weeks to get my bearings — finding where to sit, who to eat lunch with, who my reporting boss was. But by my third or fourth internship, I was ready within three days. I had my computer set up and knew where I would sit, who my boss was, and what my daily tasks would be. This adaptability helped me immensely when I moved to the U.S. and when I was teaching and training teachers from all over the world.
Actionable Steps for Parents
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Early Exposure (Grade 8): Take your child to your own workplace to observe. Make sure someone else supervises them to provide a more objective experience.
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First Internship (Grade 9): Find an internship opportunity at a friend's workplace. This provides a familiar yet independent environment.
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Second Internship (Grade 10): Use your network to find relevant internships that align with your child's growing interests.
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Subsequent Internships (Grade 11): Let your child identify industries they are interested in and help them use your connections to secure positions.
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Independent Search (Grades 12-13): By this stage, your child should be able to leverage their own networks and connections to find internships independently. Encourage them to take the initiative and offer support as needed.
By following these guidelines, both students and parents can make the most of the internship journey, leading to a successful and fulfilling career. Internships offer invaluable opportunities for growth, learning, and career development—embrace them fully.
Questions for Parents to Ask Their Children
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What was the best thing you learned today?
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What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?
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How does this experience relate to what you're studying in school?
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What skills do you think you are developing through this internship?
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Can you give an example of a problem you solved at your internship?
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What new insights have you gained about your field of interest?
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How do you see this internship influencing your future career choices?
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What have you enjoyed the most about your internship so far?
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What feedback did you receive from your supervisor, and how will you apply it?
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How are you balancing your internship with your other responsibilities?
Variety of Industries for Internships
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Manufacturing
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Services
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Non-profits
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Healthcare
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Technology
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Finance
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Education
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Retail
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Hospitality
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Media and Communications
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Environmental Services
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Government and Public Administration
Roles and Industries with Upcoming Potential
Roles:
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Data Analyst
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Digital Marketer
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UX/UI Designer
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Software Developer
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Cybersecurity Specialist
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Healthcare Administrator
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Sustainability Coordinator
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Financial Planner
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Product Manager
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Human Resources Specialist
Industries:
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Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
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Renewable Energy
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Biotechnology
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E-commerce
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Cybersecurity
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Telemedicine
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Digital Education and EdTech
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FinTech
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Smart Home Technology
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Space Exploration and Technology
By exploring these roles and industries, students can position themselves for success in the evolving job market. We hope you enjoyed this blog! For more, don't forget to explore our Blog page.
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