The Internships Hunger Games: How Gen Z is Navigating a Competitive Job Market

The application process for landing an internship has started to feel like a corporate version of the Hunger Games for many Gen Zers. Young adults are facing a frenzy while searching through job boards for opportunities.

According to a new report from student job platform Handshake, opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce, leading to heightened competition. From 2023 to 2025, internship postings on the platform declined by more than 15%, while the average number of applications per internship more than doubled in the same time period.

The competitive economic market and the nature of internships are creating a high-stress climate. Christine Cruzvergara, chief education strategy officer at Handshake, explains that older Gen Zers are tackling a difficult job market where landing an entry-level gig feels like an uphill battle. Additionally, it seems that even those who have already graduated are applying for internships, further intensifying the competition.

Internships have evolved from being a nice-to-have to a must-have, with 72% of students viewing them as a key way to discover their career paths.

Internships Have Changed, But They’re Still Behind

Internships are no longer just about fetching coffee; they are now seen as essential for standing out in a stressful market. However, around 50% of recent graduates report having participated in an internship. Barriers include limited opportunities, time constraints, and financial burdens. Internships are often criticized for perpetuating inequality, particularly unpaid positions that privilege those who can afford to work without pay.

First-generation students and those from less prestigious schools face more barriers in pursuing internships. Many students from inclusive schools need to work to pay for their education, making it difficult to commit to unpaid internships.

Interestingly, companies offering fair pay are likely making smarter long-term decisions. 82% of interns who felt adequately compensated would likely accept a full-time job offer, compared to just 63% of those who didn't feel their pay was fair.

Advice on How to Nab an Internship

Despite the frenzy, there’s no need to panic. There are two main recruitment peaks for big companies: one in late August to September and another from late January to early February. However, different industries have varying timelines, and mid-sized companies recruit year-round.

Cruzvergara encourages students to maintain a positive mindset throughout the job search process, suggesting they have a mentor to provide support. She also advises students to actively engage in campus recruitment events, ask questions, follow up with employers, and keep their resumes updated.

Finally, it’s important to remember that your first job is not your forever job; it’s merely an introduction into the workforce and a stepping stone to future opportunities.