The Definitive Guide to WayUp's Top 100 Internship Programs
Each year, the WayUp Top 100 Internship Programs list highlights the companies that provide the most valuable and enriching experiences for their interns. These programs are recognized for their commitment to fostering growth, promoting diversity and inclusion, and investing in the future leaders of tomorrow. This article delves into the details of the WayUp Top 100 Internship Programs list, exploring its selection process, key trends, and standout programs.
The Genesis of National Intern Day
WayUp created National Intern Day in 2017 to celebrate and appreciate the future leaders of the world: interns. Celebrated annually on the last Thursday of July, this holiday aims to bring attention to the challenges and inequalities that entry-level candidates face in the workplace. It also helps companies understand how investing in a diverse internship program can benefit their future.
In 2021, Yello acquired WayUp, amplifying the message of National Intern Day. The annual ranking of the Top 100 Internship Programs has become increasingly competitive, with a 33% increase in employer nominations.
Selection Criteria for the Top 100 Internship Programs
Employers must nominate their programs to be considered for the WayUp Top 100 Internship Programs list. The selection process involves two key components:
- Votes (30%): The number of votes a program receives contributes to 30% of the judging criteria.
- Expert Evaluation (70%): A panel of industry experts evaluates each program on a granular basis, accounting for 70% of the judging criteria.
Key Trends in Top Internship Programs
The evaluation process identifies emerging trends and pillars of a strong internship program. Some of the recurring themes include:
Read also: Your Guide to Nursing Internships
- Hybrid Environment: Most top internship programs embrace a hybrid format, reflecting the increasing prevalence of flexible work arrangements. Eighty percent of the Top 100 List hosted their internship in a hybrid format, further underscoring the fact that flexible work is here to stay.
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): The next generation of professionals is entering the workplace with a strong emphasis on DEI. Top programs prioritize DEI by providing opportunities for unconscious bias training, employee resource group participation, and community building. Eighty-five percent of the top programs provide opportunities for unconscious bias training, employee resource group participation, and community building.
- Talent Pipeline: Many successful programs invest in their interns as a means of building a talent pipeline for full-time roles. Sixty-five percent of top programs aim to convert 60% or more of their interns into full-time hires.
- Intern Involvement Beyond the Day-to-Day: Top programs fully integrate interns into company life. Interns participate in ERGs, volunteer alongside full-time employees, join executive Q&As, and receive the same wellness perks and mental health benefits. They are included, heard, and supported across the company.
- Focus on Community, Connection, and Healthy Competition: Programs find creative ways to build community among interns, starting even before day one.
- Layered Development and Feedback Models: Variations of the 70/20/10 development model are common, with employers providing a structured approach to learning through hands-on experience, coaching, and formal training.
Notable Internship Programs
Several companies have received recognition for their exceptional internship programs, setting new standards for meaningful, equitable, and impactful experiences:
- SAP: SAP's global internship program, with over 1,000 interns across six countries and 18 cities, creates a connected environment for interns worldwide. SAP also offers incredibly competitive pay and benefits-some interns even get a 401k-so it’s no wonder why interns love the program!
- Boeing: Boeing is recognized for taking accountability for driving DEI, working to build community amongst interns, connecting them with full-time employee mentors, and demonstrating a year-round commitment to internship programs. Boeing is setting goals for their organization and actively working to increase representation in their program.
- Kimley-Horn: Kimley-Horn’s program sets the gold standard for internships, integrating development into every layer of the program. Interns contribute to the firm’s core business, receive weekly check-ins, technical training, and multi-source feedback. The program boasts exceptional offer and conversion rates.
- American Heart Association: The American Heart Association's interns save lives through launching nationwide health initiatives, creating CPR education content, and developing advocacy campaigns. The intern experience builds both purpose and preparedness, combining strategic project work with leadership coaching, executive exposure, and professional development.
- Fulcrum Global Technologies: Fulcrum Global Technologies’ program offers autonomy, accountability, and high-touch support. Interdisciplinary teams of interns co-found real companies in a 13-week startup incubator.
- General Dynamics: General Dynamics’ internship program combines professional development, high-impact perks, and unique experiences. The program immerses students in real-world defense and cybersecurity challenges.
- Valmark: Valmark’s internship program demonstrates that small companies can build powerful talent pipelines. Interns are integrated into core business operations with clear goals, dedicated mentorship, and continuous feedback.
- Southwestern Advantage: Southwestern Advantage was also recognized in 2019 as a Top 100 Internship.
How to Become a Top Intern
Any intern can be named the "TOP" intern of the year or make the Top 100 Intern List. To increase your chances of being recognized, consider the following tips:
- Quantify Your Accomplishments: Provide specific details about your contributions and the impact you've made on your team.
- Showcase Your Projects: Explain the complexities of your projects and day-to-day responsibilities.
- Tap into Your Network: Get your connections to vote for you and spread the word about your nomination.
- Engage with Your Network: Market yourself to friends, family, and connections.
- Be Proactive: Ask questions, speak up, be on time, and act professionally.
- Make Connections: Get to know people and build relationships.
- Track Your Accomplishments: Keep a record of your tasks and achievements.
- Be a Sponge: Learn as much as you can.
The Importance of Paid Internships
One of the most significant changes employers can make to promote equality is by paying their interns. Paid internships drive more equality in the workplace and have the potential to change the world.
Read also: Comprehensive Internship Guide
Read also: Internship Opportunities
tags: #wayup #top #100 #internship #programs #list
