Assessing the Work Readiness of Students: The Role of Internship Experience and Soft Skill Competencies

Abstract

This study examines the impact of internship experience and soft skill competencies on students' work readiness. Using the Human Capital Theory as a theoretical foundation, a quantitative approach was employed with data collected from 92 students at an entrepreneurship focused institution. Variance-based Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) via SmartPLS was utilized to analyze the relationships between variables. The findings confirm that both internship experience and soft skills significantly enhance work readiness, with soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability playing a crucial role in bridging the transition from academia to professional environments. The results emphasize the need for universities to design structured, industry-aligned internship programs and integrate soft skill development into curricula. Companies should also provide mentorship and competency-based assessments to optimize student’s workforce preparedness. However, the study is limited to a single institution, necessitating broader research across diverse educational contexts. Future studies should incorporate mixed methods to explore students’ subjective experiences and assess additional factors such as mentorship effectiveness and the optimal duration of internships. These insights contribute to academic and managerial strategies for producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also adaptable and competitive in dynamic labour markets.