Intern vs. Internal

Attribute	Intern	Internal
Definition	A student or trainee who works, sometimes without pay, at a trade or occupation in order to gain work experience.	Located, existing, or occurring within an organization or institution.
Relationship to organization	External to the organization, usually temporary.	Part of the organization, usually permanent.
Role	Usually in a learning or training position.	Can have various roles within the organization.
Access	May have limited access to certain resources or information.	Typically has access to internal resources and information.

Definition

Intern and internal are two terms that are often used in the context of employment and organizational structure. An intern is typically a student or recent graduate who works at a company for a limited period of time to gain practical experience in a particular field. On the other hand, internal refers to something that is located or situated within a particular organization or entity.

Role

Interns are usually hired on a temporary basis and are often tasked with assisting full-time employees with various projects and tasks. They are there to learn and gain hands-on experience in a real-world work environment. On the other hand, internal employees are permanent members of the organization who are responsible for carrying out the day-to-day operations and functions of the company.

Training

Interns are typically provided with training and mentorship to help them develop their skills and knowledge in their chosen field. This training may include on-the-job training, workshops, seminars, and other learning opportunities. Internal employees, on the other hand, may also receive training and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge within the organization.

Benefits

Interns often receive benefits such as networking opportunities, exposure to different aspects of the business, and the chance to work on real projects that can enhance their resume. Internal employees, on the other hand, may receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other perks that come with being a full-time employee.

Advancement

Interns may have the opportunity to be hired as full-time employees after completing their internship, depending on their performance and the availability of positions within the company. Internal employees, on the other hand, may have opportunities for advancement within the organization, such as promotions, raises, and the chance to take on more responsibilities and leadership roles.

Relationships

Interns often have the opportunity to build relationships with other employees, supervisors, and mentors during their time at the company. These relationships can be valuable for networking and future career opportunities. Internal employees, on the other hand, may already have established relationships within the organization that can help them navigate their roles and advance in their careers.

Challenges

Interns may face challenges such as adjusting to a new work environment, learning new skills, and balancing work with their academic responsibilities. Internal employees, on the other hand, may face challenges such as dealing with office politics, meeting performance expectations, and adapting to changes within the organization.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while interns and internal employees both play important roles within an organization, they have distinct differences in terms of their roles, training, benefits, advancement opportunities, relationships, and challenges. Understanding these differences can help individuals make informed decisions about their career paths and goals.