Despite scoring high and winning big, many top students are failing to secure internships—and it’s not just bad luck.
This week, a LinkedIn post by Bisma Fareed, a Delhi University (DU) topper, went viral. Her message? Academic brilliance isn’t enough anymore. Bisma holds over 50 certificates, 10 medals, and multiple trophies. She’s a classic overachiever. But even with that resume, she’s struggling to land an internship.
What does this mean for the average student?
It means the internship struggle is hitting everyone—yes, even the ones who always sat in the front row and aced every exam. If a topper can’t break through, what hope does the rest of the student crowd have?
This moment has tapped into a broader frustration. Students are doing everything by the book: studying hard, collecting certificates, winning awards—and still hearing “no.” So, what’s really going on?
More Than Just Grades: The Skills Employers Want
Let’s be honest: grades look great on paper, but internships often demand more than academic knowledge. Today’s job market is skill-first, and here’s what employers often care about more than your GPA:
- Data analysis – Can you make sense of numbers and trends?
- Digital marketing – Do you understand SEO or content creation?
- Basic coding – Even a little programming knowledge can go a long way.
- Communication – Can you write a decent email or present an idea clearly?
If your college hasn’t taught you these skills, you’re not alone. A LinkedIn study found that soft and digital skills are among the most in-demand—but also the most under-taught.
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Networking: The Unspoken Advantage
Then there’s the big one: connections. Internships often go to those who know someone in the industry. That’s a harsh truth, but it’s one students can’t ignore. Many from underprivileged or first-gen college backgrounds simply don’t have the same access to professional networks.
In a system that claims to reward merit, this feels like a cheat code reserved for a few. And it’s a key part of the internship struggle.
The ‘Fit’ Factor: Culture Over Credentials
Companies don’t just want smart interns—they want interns who “fit.” That includes your attitude, curiosity, and how well you vibe with the team.
Bisma’s post reminds us: you could have medals for days, but if you come across as rigid, passive, or just unrelatable in the interview, someone with fewer credentials but more personality might edge you out.
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What Needs to Change?
The internship struggle reveals gaps in both the education system and employer expectations. Here’s how we can bridge the gap:
- Curriculum upgrade: Universities must integrate practical training—like real-world projects and industry-led workshops.
- Skill-based portfolios: Students should build work samples or side projects that show what they can actually do.
- Active networking: Attend events, join online communities, and talk to professionals. Even a 10-minute conversation can open a door.
- Focus on soft skills: Teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication matter just as much as technical skills.
Sites like Internshala and LinkedIn Learning can help students upskill, build portfolios, and connect with recruiters—sometimes more effectively than college career centers.
The Bottom Line
The truth? The internship struggle is no longer just about marks—it’s about marketing yourself. Bisma’s story isn’t just a personal rant; it’s a reflection of a larger system that prizes “fit” over formal achievements. And if the game has changed, maybe it’s time students learn the new rules.
It’s a hard pill to swallow—but a necessary one. You may be a topper, but in a world that values experience, skills, and social capital, even gold medals can feel like participation prizes.
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