The fashion internship experience: identifying learning outcomes in preparing students for the ‘real world’

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify outcomes to student development after completion of a structured, 260-hour fashion internship experience. The sample for this study included 44 undergraduate fashion students completing their internship during the summer of 2013. Students' final reflection papers submitted at the culmination of the experience served as the data for this study. In qualitatively analysing students' reflections, it was noted that the internship enhanced students' understanding of professional development and the foundational competencies specific to the fashion discipline. Through the experiential learning process, students also identified their talents, goals, and professional aspirations, and garnered increased confidence in their skills and abilities. Students rated the internship experience highest when they felt integrated into the company, valued, and were given important responsibilities. Students completing formalised internship programmes were also more satisfied with the experience. Implications to university educators and industry professionals are noted.