Throughout the years there have been a lot of changes, including the technology we use, the style people wear and the platform of communication outlets. Just as all of this has evolved, so have the requirements and expectations of college students seeking jobs or internships for their future.

Earning a degree and good grades used to be a huge accomplishment but has now become very common and as what most would consider the norm. In today’s world, many employers and companies are looking at what work experience students can bring to the table as they graduate college.

In an interview with The Huffington Post, managing director Martin Birchall of High Fliers Research said, “Work experience is now just as important as a college degree.”

Are students not taking advantage of this and taking this statement too lightly? In some cases, there are reasonable explanations for why students do not partake in any internships; one major reason being that most are un-paid. Students need to have paying jobs during their free time to help towards school, groceries, gas, and other bills.

This seems to be legitimately correct and differs upon the person. However, if this is not the case for the student, then an internship or some kind of experience in their working field should be highly considered.

Hard working and strong-headed employers ranging from careers in business to engineering, humanities, and to international work are looking for students with strong resumes filled with work experience who can succeed in their position.

According to an article posted in Business News Daily, “in a 2014 Glassdoor survey, nearly three-quarters of employees said their employers value work experience and related skills more than education when evaluating job candidates, with 53 percent saying a graduate degree is no longer necessary to secure a high-paying job. ”

These “go-getter” employers want to see someone who has talent, eagerness and potential to fill that specific job. Classroom grades can only do so much for students when developing work ethic. However, when applying those skills to real situations, students can only better themselves and their networks.

Not only can work experience help students build a strong resume, but it can also help in determining different skill levels for the student. It can also shape you into developing your interests of whether you like that particular job.

“Studying a craft can only take you so far, but when you get hands on experience in the workplace, you’ll discover your strengths and weaknesses,” said Joy Bonala, News Director with KACU.

The majority of students will admit that performing hands-on activities will help them learn and acquire an understanding for that particular area. So why not expose yourself to work experience, to better your work ethic and skill and to help build up your network?

“You’ll also find out what you enjoy most about the career you’re investing in and that makes a it a lot easier to write cover letters and decide on which internships or jobs are best for you,” said Bonala.

Most importantly, having a job while in school can help students sharpen their minds and apply classroom concepts to work situations. Jobs can help students in developing attitudes and strong work ethic skills, so when they graduate, they will be familiar with a working environment.

Bottom line, there are many reasons for students to put themselves out there in the world and get exposed to work experience while still in school. Why not take that opportunity?