92 - Paid vs. Unpaid Internships: What’s the Real Value? Is free work ever worth it—and is pay really enough?

On this episode, we have Asi, Jayz Carrillo, Oscar Oganiza, and Ragde Falcis joining us to discuss "Paid vs. Unpaid Internships: What’s the Real Value?" and Is free work ever worth it—and is pay really enough?

Internships can kickstart a career—but should they always be paid? In this episode, we examine the true value of internships, especially in tech, where the debate over compensation continues. We hear from students, mentors, and companies about what makes an internship worthwhile, how access and equity come into play, and why the learning experience often matters just as much as the paycheck—or sometimes even more.

What did you learn from your internship that school didn’t teach you? (Generalization)

Internships often teach crucial real-world problem-solving, team collaboration in a professional setting, industry-specific tools and workflows, and the nuances of corporate culture—things that are hard to replicate in a purely academic environment.

Do you think unpaid internships still have a place in tech today? (Generalization)

The place of unpaid internships in tech is highly debated. While some argue they offer valuable experience for those unable to secure paid roles, many believe they create equity barriers and should largely be phased out in favor of paid opportunities that ensure fair compensation for work.

How can companies ensure interns get value—regardless of pay? (Generalization)

Companies can ensure value by providing a structured learning environment, assigning meaningful projects with real impact, offering dedicated mentorship, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing clear feedback and career guidance. The focus should be on skill development and experiential learning.

What’s the difference between a great internship and a waste of time? (Generalization)

A great internship offers tangible learning outcomes, exposure to industry practices, opportunities to contribute to real projects, and strong mentorship. A waste of time often involves menial tasks, lack of guidance, no clear learning objectives, and feeling like a burden rather than a contributing team member.