Because these two topics frequently intersect, students majoring in economics or finance may be interested in the same types of internships. Students interested in economics internships can go in a variety of directions, including financial services, politics, and law. A career in any branch of economics can provide a financially secure lifestyle, though the path is likely to be extremely competitive.
Internship programs may be available at economic policy institutes. Students who take part in these economics internships may assist a research team on issues such as health care and energy policy as they pertain to the economy. The media frequently asks professionals who work in these organizations to comment on current economic and political policies. Interns may work in a media relations department, which organizes interviews with media outlets and issues public statements and press releases.
Economic majors have a wide range of career options, including positions that shape economic policies in a region or around the world. Students interested in macroeconomics, or the broad study of financial systems driven by inflation and employment, for example, may be able to find economics internships in global organizations promoting a strong global economy. One such organization is the International Monetary Fund (IMF). These advanced opportunities may only be available to graduate or doctoral students. Economists research the economies of various regions and present their findings and projections in a report, which interns may have the opportunity to do under the supervision of mentors.
Students interested in economics internships might be interested in working in a brokerage setting. Because of the nature of the industry, students may be required to participate in internship programs that last more than one semester. Interns at brokerage firms may be groomed for future employment. Students must show an interest in the financial markets, where stocks and bonds are traded, and will be asked to assist with the maintenance of investor accounts on the Internet. Brokerage internships may or may not be compensated positions.
Another type of financial service where economics internships may be found is stock and bond trading. Students could assist market professionals in completing buy and sell orders on behalf of investors by working alongside traders on a major stock exchange. Working on a trading desk gives an intern a true sense of what a career in financial services entails, from client interaction to market research.