Internships are an essential part of the career development process for many individuals. These programs offer hands-on, real-world experience in a particular field, allowing students to gain practical knowledge in their chosen profession. In this article, we’ll provide you with a list of the top 30 internship interview questions and sample answers that will help you prepare for an upcoming internship interview.

Definition of an Internship

An internship is a temporary work placement typically offered by businesses, organizations, and government agencies. It provides a platform for individuals looking to gain practical work experience in a particular field. Interns work closely with industry professionals to learn the ins and outs of a particular job, acquire the necessary skills and knowledge, and apply this to real-world situations.

Importance of Internships

Internships are crucial for students and recent graduates who are looking to kick start their careers. These programs provide valuable exposure to the practical aspects of a profession, thereby helping you gauge if it is the right fit for you. Internships also provide opportunities to network with professionals, develop important skills, and build your resume. Finally, an internship can lead to a job offer, so performing well in your internship program can set you up for significant opportunities down the line.

Types of Internships

As you prepare for an internship interview, it’s important to understand the different types of internships that are available. Internships can vary widely in terms of compensation, educational credit, and delivery mode. While each type has its advantages and drawbacks, each can be a valuable learning experience.

A. Paid and Unpaid Internships

One of the most significant differences between internships is whether they are paid or unpaid. Paid internships are those that offer compensation for the work that you do. Compensation can take the form of an hourly wage or a stipend.

Unpaid internships, on the other hand, do not offer monetary compensation for your work. While unpaid internships may offer valuable experience and training, they can be financially challenging. It’s important to consider the cost of living and other expenses when deciding whether to pursue an unpaid internship.

B. Credit and Non-Credit Internships

Internships can also be classified based on whether they offer academic credit. Credit internships are designed to complement your coursework, and they typically require you to complete assignments and report to an academic supervisor. Non-credit internships, on the other hand, do not offer academic credit and are not directly connected to your coursework.

While credit internships can help you fulfill degree requirements, they can also be more demanding in terms of time and coursework. Non-credit internships may offer more flexibility in terms of scheduling and duties, but they may not provide the same level of academic rigor.

C. Virtual and In-person Internships

Finally, internships can be delivered virtually or in-person. Virtual internships are those that take place entirely online, and they may include remote work, video conferences, and other virtual communication tools. In-person internships, on the other hand, require physical presence at a company or organization.

Virtual internships can be a great option for students who are unable to commute or relocate for an internship. They also provide valuable experience working in a remote environment, which is becoming increasingly common in today’s job market. However, virtual internships may require more self-discipline and motivation to stay focused and productive.

In-person internships offer the opportunity to develop professional relationships, network with colleagues, and gain valuable hands-on experience. However, they may require a significant time commitment and may be limited to companies within commuting distance.

By understanding the different types of internships, you can better prepare for your internship interview and make an informed decision about the type of internship that is right for you.

Preparing for an Internship Interview

If you want to ace your internship interview, you need to prepare adequately. Here are four crucial steps you need to take:

A. Researching the Company

Before the interview, it’s essential to conduct thorough research about the company. Check out their website, social media platforms, and any other available online resources to gather relevant information about the organization. You should understand their core values, mission statement, and vision.

Additionally, try to find out any recent achievements, projects, or news about the company. By doing so, you can ask thoughtful questions during the interview, which will demonstrate your interest and enthusiasm about the position.

B. Reviewing the Job Description

The Job description is your ultimate guide to preparing for the interview. Make sure to read it thoroughly to get a clear understanding of the position’s qualifications, responsibilities, and requirements.

Take note of the skills and experiences required for this position and assess whether you meet them. Highlighting your qualifications and experiences during the interview will increase your chances of being considered for the role.

C. Preparing Responses to Potential Questions

Preparing responses to common interview questions will increase your confidence and reduce anxiety levels. You can anticipate potential questions by researching the most frequently asked interview questions for the role you applied for.

Practice answering the questions loudly, preferably in front of a mirror or with a friend, to ensure that you are well prepared. Additionally, try to come up with unique responses that demonstrate your expertise, accomplishments, and qualifications.

D. Dressing for Success

Your physical appearance is the first impression you make during the interview. Thus, dressing appropriately for the occasion is crucial. When deciding on what to wear, consider the industry, the company’s culture, and the position you applied.

It’s better to overdress than underdress. Wear professional attire that reflects the position you’re applying for, and make sure your hair, nails, and overall grooming are impeccable.

To ace your internship interview, research the company, review the job description, prepare responses to potential questions, and dress professionally. By doing so, you’ll exude confidence, professionalism, and enthusiasm, making you an ideal fit for the position.

Common Internship Interview Questions

During an internship interview, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions to determine if you are a good fit for the company and the internship position. Here are ten common internship interview questions that you may encounter, along with sample answers.

A. Tell us about yourself

This question is often used to break the ice and get to know the candidate on a personal level. It’s important to strike a balance between being informative and professional. You can speak about your education, relevant experience, and extracurricular activities. Here’s an example answer:

“I recently graduated from XYZ University with a degree in marketing. During my time there, I completed internships at two different companies where I gained experience in market research and social media management. During my free time, I enjoy volunteering at the local animal shelter and working on my photography skills.”

B. What are your strengths and weaknesses?

The interviewer wants to know what skills and traits the candidate brings to the table, as well as areas where they may need improvement. It’s important to be honest but also show how you are taking steps to work on your weaknesses. Here’s an example answer:

“My strengths include strong attention to detail, the ability to work well under pressure, and excellent communication skills. However, I often struggle with time management and can get easily overwhelmed. To work on this weakness, I have started using a planner and breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable steps.”

C. What experience do you have in this field?

The interviewer is seeking to understand what relevant experience the candidate has and how it applies to the internship position. Here’s an example answer:

“I have completed two marketing internships where I gained experience in email marketing, social media management, and content creation. I also worked part-time at a local boutique where I assisted with visual merchandising and customer service. These experiences have taught me the importance of attention to detail, creativity, and customer satisfaction.”

D. Why are you interested in this internship?

This question tests whether the candidate has done their research on the company and the internship position. It’s important to show a genuine interest in the company and how the internship could help further your career goals. Here’s an example answer:

“I’m interested in this internship because I’m passionate about marketing and I admire the company’s innovative marketing campaigns. I believe that interning here would give me hands-on experience in areas like social media management and email marketing, which would be valuable for my future career.”

E. What do you hope to achieve during this internship?

This question tests whether the candidate has clear goals and has thought about what they hope to achieve during their time at the company. It’s important to show that you have given this question some thought. Here’s an example answer:

“I hope to gain a deeper understanding of how marketing strategies are developed and implemented in a corporate environment.

Behavioral Internship Interview Questions

During a behavioral interview, the interviewer will ask questions that assess how you’ve handled past situations in the workplace. Here are five common behavioral internship interview questions and how to answer them:

A. Tell me about a time you overcame a challenge

When answering this question, it’s important to choose a challenge that is relevant to the position and shows growth on your part. Start by describing the situation and the obstacle you faced, then explain the steps you took to overcome it. Finally, highlight the positive outcome that resulted from your perseverance. For example:

“In my previous internship, I was tasked with organizing a company event with a limited budget. We faced a challenge when one of our main sponsors dropped out last minute, leaving us in a tight spot. To overcome this, I reached out to local businesses and was able to secure several new sponsors. I also worked with my team to streamline the event planning process and cut costs where possible. In the end, the event was a success and we received positive feedback from attendees and management.”

B. Describe a time when you had to work with a difficult person and how you handled it

This question is designed to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse personalities. When answering, be sure to use specific examples to illustrate your point. Start by describing the situation and the person you were working with, then explain the challenge you faced and the steps you took to address it. Finally, describe the positive outcome that resulted from your efforts. For example:

“In my last internship, I was working on a team project with a colleague who had a very different communication style than mine. This led to some misunderstandings and tension between us. To address the issue, I scheduled a one-on-one meeting with my colleague to discuss our communication styles and find common ground. We agreed to communicate more openly and address any issues as they arose. As a result, we were able to work more effectively together and successfully complete the project.”

C. Give an example of a time you showed leadership skills

When answering this question, be sure to choose an example that demonstrates your ability to take charge and guide a team to success. Start by describing the situation and your role, then explain the challenges you faced and the steps you took to overcome them. Finally, highlight the positive outcome that resulted from your leadership. For example:

“In my previous internship, I was tasked with leading a team of interns on a research project. We faced a challenge when our data analysis tool crashed, putting us behind schedule. To overcome this, I rallied the team and delegated tasks to ensure we stayed on track. I also contacted the software provider and was able to get an expedited fix, which allowed us to complete the project within the given timeline. As a result of my leadership, we received praise from senior management for our work.”

Technical Internship Interview Questions

When it comes to technical internships, employers are looking for candidates who are not only proficient in specific software and programs, but who can also communicate technical concepts effectively to both technical and non-technical audiences. Additionally, candidates should have experience working on technical projects that showcase their technical skills.

Below are some common technical interview questions and possible sample answers:

A. What software/programs are you proficient in?

This question is intended to determine your technical proficiency and experience with relevant software and programs. Be honest about your skills and experience, and don’t be afraid to mention any courses or training you may have completed to enhance your knowledge.

Sample answer: “I’m proficient in a variety of software and programs, including Excel, Python, and SQL. In my previous internship, I extensively used Excel to analyze large datasets and generate reports for my team. I’ve also completed an online course in Python programming, which has given me a solid foundation in the language.”

B. Can you explain a technical concept to a non-technical person?

This question assesses your ability to communicate technical concepts effectively to individuals who may not be familiar with technical jargon. It’s important to keep your answer clear, concise, and avoid using complex technical terms.

Sample answer: “Sure, I’ll give it a try. So, let’s say you want to develop a new mobile application. In order to do so, you need to create a user interface that users will interact with. This interface is like the bridge between the user and the application. When users interact with the interface, certain actions are triggered within the application’s code that make things happen. Does that make sense?”

C. Tell me about a technical project you worked on.

This question allows you to showcase your experience working on technical projects and demonstrate the value you added to your previous team. Be sure to explain your role in the project, the technical skills you utilized, and the outcome.

Sample answer: “In my previous internship, I worked on a project to develop a web application that allowed users to search for and book holiday accommodations. My role in the project involved building the application’s user interface using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. I also contributed to the back-end development using PHP and MySQL. The project was a success, as it met the client’s requirements and received positive feedback from users.”

D. What do you know about [specific technical skill]?

This question allows you to demonstrate your knowledge and experience with a specific technical skill. Research the technical skill beforehand and be prepared to provide concrete examples or experiences that highlight your understanding of it.

Sample answer: “I have experience with agile project management methodology, which emphasizes iterative development and frequent communication among team members. In my previous internship, our team used agile methodology to complete a mobile application development project. This involved regular sprint meetings, continuous feedback, and the use of tools such as JIRA to track progress.

Internship Interview Questions about the Company

As an aspiring intern, it is essential to research the company you are applying to beforehand to showcase your interest and knowledge. In this section, we will discuss the top four questions about the company that may arise during an internship interview, along with some ideas for how to answer them effectively.

A. What do you know about our company?

This question aims to assess your level of preparation for the interview and your understanding of the company’s core values, products/services, and target audience. Before the interview, conduct thorough research on the company’s website, social media pages, press releases, and news articles to gain a better understanding of their mission, vision, and recent projects.

For example, ”Based on my research, I know that your company is a leader in the software development industry, focusing on advanced analytics and AI applications. Your breakthrough technology, combined with the expertise of the highly skilled team, has helped you achieve several awards and recognition, including the XYZ Award for innovation in 2020.”

B. What attracted you to our company?

This question aims to assess your level of motivation and interest in the company. It’s essential to identify one or two unique aspects of the company that align with your goals, values, and interests. You can draw from your research and mention specific projects, values, or company culture that caught your eye.

For example, ”I was initially drawn to your company’s innovative approach to AI and software development. After doing more research, I also discovered that your company actively seeks to give back to the community, which resonates with my passion for volunteering and social responsibility. I am excited to work for a company that values both business success and making a positive impact.”

C. How would you describe our company’s culture?

This question aims to assess your cultural fit within the company and whether your attitudes and working style align with the corporate culture. The best way to answer this question is to be honest and authentic, while also demonstrating your understanding of what makes the company culture unique.

For example, ”From my research and talking to current employees, I understand that your company culture values collaboration, innovation, and diversity. The company culture also encourages open communication, creative thinking, and continuous learning. As a team player who loves to brainstorm new ideas and share knowledge, I believe I would thrive in this dynamic work environment.”

D. What can you bring to our company?

This question aims to assess your skills, experiences, and how you can add value to the company. It’s essential to link your skills and experiences with the company’s needs and emphasize the benefits that you can bring to the team.

For example, ”Based on my experiences in software development and my passion for innovation, I believe I can contribute to the company’s mission by bringing new perspectives and ideas.

Internship Interview Questions about the Industry

During an internship interview, the hiring manager will want to gauge your interest and knowledge of the industry you are applying for. Here are three common questions you may be asked, along with sample answers:

A. How do you stay up-to-date on industry news and trends?

It is important to stay current with industry news and trends, especially in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business landscape. There are several ways I keep myself informed and up-to-date in my industry:

Reading industry publications and news websites regularly
Following industry influencers on social media platforms such as Twitter and LinkedIn
Attending industry events, conferences, and webinars
Network with peers and professionals in the industry

For instance, as an aspiring marketing intern, staying current with recent marketing trends can help me understand the evolving needs and dynamics of consumers, hence, equip me with knowledge on how to react and create changes, with more accurate predictions.

B. What excites you about this industry?

This question is aimed at exploring the passion and drive you have towards a future career in the industry you are pursuing. When answering this question, it’s essential to be honest and specific. Here’s how I would answer this question:

“I am excited about this industry for several reasons. First, I am fascinated by {specific aspect of industry} and the {specific trend/reality} that consistently drives it forward. The thought of playing an active role in a positive industry evolution excites me. Second, the nature of this industry is highly creative, and I enjoy being innovative and responding to challenges positively. I’m excited to explore new marketing modalities that help businesses communicate their brands effectively.”

C: Who do you consider to be an industry leader and why?

Interns who can identify industry leaders and articulate why they are highly regarded gain an immediate advantage during an interview. When answering this question, it’s crucial to do in-depth research ahead of time. Here’s how I would answer this question:

“There are several industry leaders I admire; among them is {specific industry leader}. I highly regard this individual because {specific reasons}. In addition, they {mentioned achievements}. This inspires me because it shows that with determination and effort, highly ambitious objectives can be achieved in the industry with top-notch creativity, innovations and a winning mindset. I also follow their social media handles to stay up to date with industry news and trends for inspiration.”

Preparing thoughtful and concise answers to these questions ahead of time will not only help you communicate your passion and interest in a field, but it will also demonstrate to potential employers that you are serious and dedicated enough to represent yourself effectively.

Top 30 Internship Interview Questions and Sample Answers