STEM is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It is an interdisciplinary approach to learning in which students apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in ways that make links between education, culture, work, and the global enterprise. It also enables the growth of STEM literacy and, with it, the ability to succeed in the new economy.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 8.5 million STEM jobs existed in the United States as of May 2015. Approximately 45% of these jobs focused on computer and computer-related jobs.
Nowadays, students take on internships for one reason or the other. Currently, an intern can have the option of working part-time or full-time at the company for a specified period of time. Internships are popular with undergraduate and graduate students who need to gain valuable work or research experience.
STEM internship refers to STEM-related jobs that students take up in order to build on their experience in a related profession and as well earn some money. Some of the highest-paid STEM internships require background knowledge in Science, Mathematics, and Technological fields.
Additionally, advancing in a STEM career can help you increase your earning potential. Having technical experience via a STEM internship will also make these jobs easier and more attractive to you.
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WHY IS STEM INTERNSHIP IMPORTANT?
Finding a job can be challenging, especially when you do not have the experience required in the field, and gaining experience requires a job. Internships pose as a window through which you can gain valuable working experience.
Furthermore, the global economy is undergoing a transformation. Current jobs are being scrapped, and new jobs are being created on a daily basis as a result of technological advancements.
STEM internship offers you the opportunity to explore your career paths and acquaint yourself with the field you are interested in. Every day, advancements in technology are transforming the way students learn, communicate, and interact. STEM skills provide students with the base they need to excel in school and beyond.
Moreover, a STEM internship focuses on one or more engineering, computer sciences, mathematicians, and students who choose STEM careers can expect to earn a mouth-watering income.
Asides from offering a mouth-watering income, a STEM internship provide you the opportunity to network with professionals in the field that you can learn directly and also earn you a potential connection.
Again, STEM skills are in high demand from employers and will continue to be so in the future. Currently, STEM skills are needed for 75% of jobs in the fastest-growing industries. People who can adjust to a changing workplace remain competitive.
Also,
STEM internship equips you with the skills you need to excel and adapt to a rapidly changing environment. Many companies use internships to enhance their recruitment efforts. (dermaflage.com)
In most cases, a company may decide to hire an intern at the end of an assignment or grant them an offer down the line if they create a favorable impression during their internship.
Additionally, many internships are paid, which means you can gain valuable work experience and make money at the same time. A paid internship will provide money to fund your tuition and expenses.
Many of the highest-paying STEM jobs require extensive educational training and background in the field they specialize in. That doesn’t mean you’ll need to be a scientist or a mathematician to succeed.
STEM skills are useful in almost every industry. You may use your math skills to work in environmental protection or use cutting-edge technology to become a fashion designer.
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10 Best And Paid Stem Internships
As one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying industries, those working in STEM careers should feel confident and safe in their career choices over the coming years.
The average annual salary for all STEM careers as of 2017 was $87,570 compared to the national average of $45,700 for all non-STEM positions.
Below are some of the best-paid internship programs you can apply for and their primary duties:
1. Data Analyst:
A data analyst gathers, sorts, and analyzes data that businesses use to make operational and financial decisions.
Data analysts work in a variety of industry settings, including business, sales and marketing, product development, and financial environments.
No matter their field of focus, data scientists help businesses evaluate operational and financial data to make plans for growth and development.
This is one of the best-paid stem internships.
2. System Administrators:
System administrators maintain the operation of computer networks.
These technology professionals are usually responsible for installing and supporting business computer systems and configuring the user setups for Wide Area Networks (WANs), Local Area Networks (LANs) and intranets, segmented networks, and other data communication systems.
3. Clinical Informaticist:
A clinical Informaticist combines computer and information science with healthcare management to facilitate the efficacy of the healthcare environment.
Basically, they use technology integration that assists healthcare practitioners and enhances workflow, strengthens treatment outcomes, and improves patient and provider relationships.
4. Epidemiologist:
An epidemiologist is a public health worker who researches the causes of disease in humans and investigates patterns of infection and illness.
These public health professionals focus their efforts on mitigating and reducing risks and occurrences of illness and disease.
They commonly work within the community to educate the population and develop appropriate health policies.
5. Chemical Engineer:
A chemical engineer plans, designs, and develops chemical manufacturing processes for industry corporations that rely on the use or production of chemicals.
Typically, chemical engineers apply the principles of chemistry, biology, and mathematics to problem-solve and create efficient solutions for companies to use during the manufacturing and production of fuel, food, medicines, and other applications that rely on chemical processes.
6. Geologist:
A geologist is a scientist who studies the processes on earth, such as tectonic movements, erosion, earthquakes, and other geologic applications.
These scientists specialize in using data they find during land surveys and observations about the geography of an area to help engineers and designers to develop safe building and construction plans.
Additionally, geologists perform research into natural gases, oil, and water and develop ways to extract these resources in industrial settings.
7. IT Manager:
An IT manager is an information technology professional who integrates and maintains the operational processes of a company’s technology infrastructure.
These professionals commonly work in business settings to support company information and data systems by directing and managing IT development and maintenance teams.
This is another highly-paid stem internship.
8. Computer Scientist:
A computer scientist solves problems through the use of technological applications. These technical professionals write and program software, develop applications for mobile and smart devices and also develop websites.
Computer scientists typically focus on the validation and development of mathematical models that are capable of computer-to-network and user-computer interactions.
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9. Radiologist:
Radiologists diagnose and treat disease and injury by using radiological imaging procedures such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scanning, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and positron emission tomography (PET) scanning.
They commonly work with nuclear medical technicians to operate and maintain radiological equipment.
10. Network Security Engineer:
Network security engineers are responsible for integrating and managing the security of a company’s computer systems and networks.
These engineers plan and implement a variety of security measures to protect networks from cyber attacks, hackers, intrusion, natural disasters, infiltration, and other risks and threats to a computer system.
Additionally, network security engineers may also find ways to reduce and mitigate security risks.
This is the last best-paid stem internship on this list.
TOP 10 COMPANIES OFFERING STEM INTERNSHIP
Here is the list of the top 10 places to intern based on their ratings.
#1 Dell Technologies:
Dell Technologies is one company that offers stem internships.
The computer and technology company is serious about hiring more college students. Dell targeted to have at least 25 percent of all external hiring come from college campuses.
The company offers internships in accounting, financial services, engineering, and computer science, finance, global operations, human resources, marketing, information technology, and more.
Most of the positions run from 10 to 12 weeks and offer approximately $24 an hour.
#2 GE:
GE offers internships in 83 locations across 43 different countries, and they are a good pipeline into full-time employment. The company runs several different multi-year leadership training programs, and 25 percent of the people in these programs are former interns.
#3 L’Oréal:
The beauty company offers a range of internships, from digital marketing to consumer product design and sales. Some of the company’s internships are open to recent graduates as well and can last up to 12 months.
Interns can make approximately $20 to $22 per hour.
#4 EY:
The financial services company offers internships in multiple areas, including advisory, assurance, tax, and transaction advisory services.
Interns make approximately $26 to $29 per hour.
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#5 Facebook:
An internship at Facebook includes hackathons, offsite events, and weekly Q&A sessions with executives.
Interns make between $7,000 and $8,000 per month.
#6 Google:
An internship for the internet and tech giants pays very well.
Software engineering interns make more than $6,600 each month, and an internship for MBA students pays $8,200 monthly.
#7 Newell Brands:
Newell Brands, the company behind Paper Mate pens, Elmer’s Glue, and many other office and household products, offers internships in areas ranging from e-commerce to design to research. Interns make between $15 and $20 per hour.
The company offers a number of incentives, including “lunch and learns” with the executives and team-building like bowling and golfing excursions. Each intern is assigned a mentor and is evaluated on his or her progress throughout the summer.
#8 CohnReznick:
At the accounting and tax advisory firm, interns will learn by doing real work on real engagements, with the opportunity to work on projects in industries such as renewable energy, technology, life sciences, and real estate.
The internship pays approximately $23 per hour.
#9 Enterprise Rent-A-Car:
The rental car company offers internships in management, accounting, and brand ambassadorship.
The internship pays approximately $10 to $ 12 per hour.
#10 Under Amour:
Under Armor is another company that offers paid stem internships.
The athletic wear company calls its internship the “summer league”. Each intern is assigned a mentor and has access to learning seminars like Q&A sessions with executives.
The internships pay approximately $15 to $20 per hour.
CONCLUSION
Going for a STEM-related career has many benefits. It places you a step ahead of your peers and as well grants you financial stability.
By taking up a STEM internship program, you stand to:
- Gain valuable work experience.
- Explore a career path.
- Give yourself an edge in the job market.
- Develop and refine your skills.
- Receive financial compensation.
- Interact with professionals in the field.
- Gain confidence.
- Get transition into a job.
