From Internship to Startup: The Impact of Practical Work Experience on Entrepreneurial Intentions and Career Choices

Abstract

This qualitative literature review explores the relationship between practical work experience, specifically internships, and the development of entrepreneurial intentions and career choices. The study investigates how internships provide students and early-career professionals with hands-on experience that influences their decision to pursue entrepreneurship. By analyzing existing research on the role of internships in shaping entrepreneurial mindsets, the review identifies key factors that contribute to entrepreneurial intentions, such as exposure to real-world business practices, networking opportunities, and skill development. The findings suggest that internships not only enhance professional competence but also foster entrepreneurial behaviors, particularly when individuals are exposed to innovative business environments. This review aims to provide insights into how practical work experience can serve as a stepping stone toward entrepreneurship, guiding future research and policy recommendations in the field of career development and entrepreneurship education.