Evaluating the Effectiveness and Impact of Internship Programs on the Professional and Personal Development of Business Administration Students in Davao Oriental

Abstract

This study evaluated the effectiveness and impact of internship programs on the professional and personal development of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) students in Davao Oriental. Using a descriptive-quantitative design, data were gathered from 103 student interns through a structured questionnaire. The study examined university support, the effectiveness of pre-placement activities, the relevance of host training establishments, and the program’s impact on students’ academic, personal, and entrepreneurial skills, as well as their overall professional growth. Results revealed that the university provided a high level of support (overall mean = 3.89) and that pre-placement activities were highly effective (4.17). Host training establishments demonstrated a very high level of support and relevance (4.33), indicating strong industry partnerships. Furthermore, the internship program was found to be very effective in developing students’ academic (4.23), personal (4.26), and entrepreneurial skills (4.29). The overall impact on professional development (4.27), professional skills (4.31), personal growth (4.21), and personal capabilities (4.46) was also very high, suggesting that internship experiences substantially enhance both professional competence and personal maturity. Qualitative feedback supported these findings, emphasizing the importance of aligning placements with students’ specializations, enhancing mentorship, and strengthening industry collaboration. The study concludes that internship programs play a crucial role in bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, thereby fostering workplace readiness and overall growth among business students. It recommends continuous improvement through stronger university–industry linkages, structured mentoring, and outcome-based assessment to sustain program quality and relevance