Remote vs. In-Person Internships | Which Is Better for Your Career?

Whether you're studying your final year at university or have recently graduated, choosing between a remote or in-person internship can make a big difference to your future career prospects. Both options have their advantages,/ it really depends on how you like to work, what you want to learn, and what fits best with your current lifestyle.

An in-person internship gives you the chance to experience daily workplace life, collaborate with others, and build professional connections face-to-face. On the other hand, remote internships offer flexibility, independence, and access to opportunities you might not have locally.

This blog will walk you through what both types of internships look like and how to weigh up what works best for you.

In-Person and Remote Internships: The Differences

In-Person Internships

A traditional form of work experience, an intern physically attends a workplace to perform tasks. It provides hands-on industry connection and exposure to daily operations.

If selected, the intern usually attends the office up to 5 days a week and is assigned to a mentor or supervisor. They may work independently, part of a team, or shadow someone with experience in the same role.

Tasks could involve administrative duties, assisting with ongoing projects, and attending training sessions or meetings.

Remote Internships

A good internship program helps you develop skills and do meaningful work regardless of your location. But with a remote role, networking becomes tricky.

Although LinkedIn is great for starting conversations, it is possible to build a network by using email or instant messaging. Consider whether you'd have a preference for face-to-face conversation and interactions.

Virtual internships are more flexible (no commuting!), which opens up opportunities for you if you live regionally. But remote internships may be less structured, so they require a lot of self-motivation and pushing yourself to get things done.

How do you make the most of a remote internship?

Think about what you want from the program. Is there a skill you need to sharpen, and where do you want to be?

Apply to good programs. Read through the program description and refer back to your goals. Who will your supervisor be, and what can you expect to learn?

If you've been selected, talk to your supervisor about goals and expectations. Use virtual calendars, share a timeline with your supervisor, communicate, and be receptive to feedback.

What to consider before picking an on-site internship

You get hands-on experience, such as exposure to tools, systems and real-world situations

Networking opportunities on-site, in some cases, are easier to build professional relationships with peers and mentors

Structured workplace schedules build teamwork, punctuality and teamwork

Stronger mentorship, such as face-to-face guidance for immediate feedback

Daily travel expenses, meals, and at times, relocation add financial burdens

Not as much flexibility. Fixed hours don't suit everyone

Location constraints if you don't live near the office

Equipment is usually provided by the company

There's separation between work and personal life

Office distractions may be distracting or overwhelming for new interns.

Choose an in-office internship if you want something more hands-on, thrive in structured environments, aim to build strong networks in person, and are in fields requiring lab work, equipment, or supervision (hospitality, engineering, healthcare, etc).

What to consider before going for remote opportunities

No commute is needed

You're limited to virtual interactions

Hours and location are flexible to your circumstances

Encourages self-motivation and time management

Team collaboration is done through virtual tools such as Microsoft Teams or Slack

You might feel isolated from company culture

There are lower (or no) travel costs

They're great for tech, writing or research roles

It is still valuable to your resume

Choose a remote internship if you want flexible hours to balance other commitments, cannot relocate, and are comfortable with digital tools and self-discipline.

It really depends on:

What you're studying. A hands-on career like nursing isn't something that can be done remotely unless you find a nurse-on-call type of role. That said, creative roles like copywriting or tech-focused roles like software engineering can be done from home.

How do you like to work? Do you prefer office culture, or are you a self-motivated individual? Team players are still essential in any role, but there are internships with a more autonomous approach.

The kind of experience you are looking for. If your career focus is electrical engineering, you will need specific skills in that field. Careers like graphic design require program knowledge, which can be learned in a remote setting.

Your personal circumstances. If you have a physical disability or are a single mum, you might prefer remote internship programs. Always speak to a potential employee to discuss what works!

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