National Intern Day

National Intern Day is observed on the last Thursday in July. Interns—those at the beginning of their professional journey—make calls, submit paperwork, and assist more experienced staff. Internships are typically held by college students or recent graduates, offering not only a source of income but also an opportunity to learn the inner workings of a company or organization.

History

National Intern Day was founded by WayUp in 2017 to recognize interns for their contributions, ambitions, and future potential. The holiday also brings attention to the inequality between interns and full-time employees. Internships are a stepping stone to a career, yet many people overlook their importance or fail to list them on resumes. This day encourages job seekers to highlight their experience and employers to treat interns with the respect they deserve.

The celebration also reminds companies that offering compensation and mentorship can positively shape an intern’s career. WayUp supports this effort by publishing a list of the Top 100 internship programs. How a company treats its interns can have a lasting impact on their future growth and opportunities.

Facts About Internships and Education

• College in the U.S. is costly—students typically pay between $30,000 and $60,000 per year.
• There are more women in college than men—about 1.5 million vs. 775,000.
• The average student loan debt in the U.S. is around $37,000.
• The Ivy League is considered the most prestigious college group, but only 0.4% of students can afford to attend.
• In the early 1800s, tuition at Brown University was just $5 per year.

How to Take Part

Encourage your workplace to create opportunities for interns and help them feel welcome. Share appreciation on social media using the hashtag #NationalInternDay. If you know an intern personally, thank them for their hard work. Support young professionals by mentoring or helping them network.

When is National Intern Day in 2025?

National Intern Day is observed on the last Thursday in July each year.

Observations