National Intern Day 2025: When It Is, How to Celebrate & Why It Matters

National Intern Day is a special occasion in the United States that celebrates the hard work, potential, and contributions of interns across various industries. These rising professionals bring fresh perspectives to the workplace while gaining real-world experience that helps shape their future careers. Interns play a key role in today’s workforce, and recognising their efforts promotes a culture of learning, growth, and mentorship.

Originally launched by WayUp in 2017, National Intern Day has grown into a nationwide event supported by leading companies, universities, and career platforms. It highlights the growing importance of internships in the modern job market and gives businesses an opportunity to show appreciation for emerging talent.

➤ In this article, we explore everything you need to know about National Intern Day 2025 — from the official date and purpose to ways you can celebrate and the impact it has on both interns and organisations.

What Is National Intern Day?

Image source: www.nationaldaycalendar.com

National Intern Day is an annual celebration in the United States that recognises the valuable contributions of interns in workplaces across the country. Launched by the career platform WayUp in 2017, the day encourages companies to show appreciation for their interns’ hard work, growth, and potential. From small startups to Fortune 500 companies, employers participate by highlighting intern achievements on social media, hosting appreciation events, giving awards, or offering team-building activities—both in-person and virtual. It’s a powerful reminder that interns are not just temporary staff, but future leaders in the making.

Learn about: If you're exploring career options after your internship, don’t miss our guide on Stateside Careers 2025: Top U.S. Job Roles, Hiring Companies & Application Tips, where you’ll find valuable insights on growing industries and how to land your ideal job.

When Is National Intern Day in 2025?

Image source: nationaltoday.com

National Intern Day 2025 will be observed on Thursday, July 31st, which is the last Thursday of July. This consistent scheduling gives companies and universities ample time to plan events, appreciation campaigns, and activities that align with summer internship programs. It also ensures that most interns, who are usually active between May and August, are still participating when the celebration takes place.

Why Was National Intern Day Created?

Image source: media.licdn.com

National Intern Day was launched by WayUp in 2017 to spotlight the important contributions interns make in the workplace. Interns often take on real responsibilities, support key projects, and bring fresh ideas—but their efforts frequently go underappreciated. This day was created to change that perception and give companies an opportunity to publicly recognise their interns. It also promotes the importance of meaningful internship programs that offer mentorship, learning opportunities, and a path to future employment. Celebrating National Intern Day signals that a company values growth, inclusivity, and investing in the next generation of talent.

Why Internships Matter More Than Ever in 2025

Image source: intuitclasses.com

In 2025, internships have become a critical part of career development—not just a resume booster. With job markets becoming more competitive and industries constantly evolving, internships offer students and recent graduates the chance to gain real-world experience, build practical skills, and explore career paths. Unlike classroom learning, internships place individuals in active work environments where they can contribute to real projects, collaborate with professionals, and adapt to workplace dynamics.

Thanks to the rise of hybrid and remote opportunities, internships are now more accessible to students from different geographic and socioeconomic backgrounds. This flexibility allows companies to attract a broader and more diverse pool of talent. For employers, internships serve as a valuable recruitment tool—helping identify future full-time hires while investing in early talent development.

How Companies Celebrate National Intern Day

Image source: media.licdn.com

Companies across the U.S. celebrate National Intern Day in a variety of meaningful ways—ranging from simple acknowledgements to large-scale events. Many host appreciation lunches, spotlight intern achievements on LinkedIn, or distribute digital thank-you notes. Others go further by organising team-building activities, awarding certificates, or sending curated swag boxes filled with branded merchandise. Global companies like Salesforce and Microsoft use this day to showcase intern-led projects, share testimonials on social media, and highlight mentorship success stories—helping interns feel recognised, included, and inspired for future roles.

How Interns Can Make the Most of National Intern Day

Image source: cdn.prod.website-files.com

National Intern Day is the perfect chance for interns to reflect on their journey, highlight their accomplishments, and grow their professional presence. One of the most effective ways to do this is by sharing a thoughtful post on LinkedIn. This not only celebrates the experience but also shows future employers your initiative and communication skills.

A strong LinkedIn post might include:

• A short thank-you message to your mentor or team
  
  
• A specific skill you developed or a challenge you overcame
  
  
• A link or screenshot of a completed project (if appropriate)
  
  
• A group photo with colleagues (with permission)
  
  
• Hashtags like #NationalInternDay and your company’s official tag
  
  

By posting publicly, interns increase their visibility, build professional connections, and may even catch the attention of hiring managers looking to fill full-time roles.

Pro Tip for HR Teams: While celebrating interns is essential, managing their compensation smoothly is just as important. Learn how payroll plays a vital role in HR success in our guide: Payroll in Human Resource Management: Roles, Process, Challenges, and Best Practices

Creative Ideas to Celebrate National Intern Day in 2025

Image source: cdn.prod.website-files.com

Looking to celebrate National Intern Day in a way that’s meaningful and memorable? Here are some creative and inclusive ideas that companies across the U.S. can implement—whether you have five interns or fifty:

• “Lunch & Learn” Sessions with Leadership: Invite senior team members or department heads to host casual, informative lunches where interns can ask questions, learn about career paths, and gain insights into the industry.
  
  
• Digital Thank-You Boards: Use collaboration tools like Miro, Microsoft Teams, or Google Jamboard to create a shared space where team members can leave public messages of appreciation for each intern.
  
  
• Peer-Nominated Intern Awards: Let interns nominate each other for lighthearted awards such as “Best Team Player” or “Creative Problem Solver.” It builds camaraderie and boosts morale.
  
  
• Intern Project Showcases: Give interns the chance to present their work in a dedicated showcase to staff. This adds real value and demonstrates the impact of their contributions.
  
  
• Virtual Games and Trivia Events: Host a fun online session with trivia, icebreakers, or team-building games to include both in-person and remote interns.
  
  
• Appreciation Kits for Remote Interns: Send out thoughtful packages with snacks, notebooks, or branded gear to remote interns so they feel equally recognised and included.
  
  

These celebration ideas can be scaled up or down based on your company’s size and budget. The key is to make interns feel valued, supported, and seen—regardless of where they work.

National Intern Day and Its Impact on Recruitment

Image source: capitalgifts.com

Celebrating National Intern Day isn't just good for morale—it also delivers measurable benefits for talent acquisition. According to the SHRM Internship & Recruitment Report 2025, 38% of U.S. companies experienced increased interest in their full-time positions after actively participating in National Intern Day celebrations.

Why does this happen? When interns feel appreciated and share their positive experiences online—through platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram—it signals to future applicants that the company values mentorship and early-career development. This kind of authentic brand visibility helps companies stand out in a competitive hiring landscape and strengthens their employer brand.

U.S. Intern-to-Employee Conversion Rate by Company Size (2025)

Image source: i.pinimg.com

Source: SHRM Internship & Recruitment Report 2025

These figures show that larger companies—often with more structured internship programs—are more likely to convert interns into long-term employees. However, small and mid-sized firms can also benefit significantly from recognition strategies on National Intern Day by improving intern retention and building a reputation for supportive company culture.

For businesses planning long-term growth or budgeting future hires, understanding compensation trends is key — check out our full guide on Payroll Manager Salary in 2025: Complete Guide by State, Industry & Experience to see how compensation aligns across departments.

The Role of National Intern Day in Company Culture

Image source: blogs.sas.com

Recognising interns on National Intern Day has become more than a trend—it reflects a company’s commitment to a positive and supportive workplace culture. Businesses that actively celebrate their interns often experience higher employee retention, stronger team morale, and increased referrals from both current and former interns. When companies take time to show appreciation, it reinforces values like mentorship, learning, and inclusivity. Celebrating Intern Day is not just good PR—it signals to employees and job seekers alike that the organisation invests in people and professional growth.

National Intern Day Awards and Recognition

Image source: www.daysoftheyear.com

WayUp’s “Top 100 Internship Programs” highlights U.S. companies that provide exceptional experiences for their interns. Companies are evaluated based on:

• Training quality – Structured programs that support skill development and professional growth
  
  
• Intern feedback – Positive reviews from current and former interns on work culture and mentorship
  
  
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) support – Commitment to inclusive hiring and support practices
  
  
• Intern-to-hire conversion rates – High percentage of interns offered full-time roles after their program
  
  

Companies often use this recognition in:

• PR campaigns
  
  
• LinkedIn announcements
  
  
• Campus recruiting to attract top student talent
  

The Economic Value Interns Bring to Businesses

Image source: i0.wp.com

Interns offer real business value beyond just learning opportunities. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), well-structured internship programs can reduce project-related costs by up to 30%. Interns support companies in areas like digital marketing, data research, software testing, and even product development, allowing full-time teams to focus on high-level tasks.

When managed effectively, interns become valuable contributors—not just observers. They bring fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and adaptability, especially in fast-paced industries like tech and marketing. In 2025, companies are increasingly seeing internships not just as educational tools but as strategic cost-saving solutions.

If you're a company looking to host interns or expand your early-career programs, understanding how to secure the right office environment is key—check out our guide on How to Rent Space for Your Small Business in 2025 for practical tips on leasing, costs, and location strategies.

Average Hourly Pay for U.S. Interns in 2025 (by Industry)

Image source: encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com

Source: NACE Internship Compensation Report, 2025

National Intern Day Campaign Examples from Leading Companies

Image source: media.licdn.com

Several top U.S. companies go above and beyond to make National Intern Day a memorable experience. Their creative campaigns not only celebrate interns but also strengthen employer branding and future recruitment.

• Salesforce hosted a global virtual intern summit featuring live Q&A panels with senior executives, giving interns valuable insight into leadership and career growth.
  
  
• IBM launched a “Meet Our Interns” video series on LinkedIn, showcasing real intern stories, roles, and achievements to inspire future applicants.
  
  
• Warner Bros. Discovery sent out customised thank-you gift boxes to interns across departments, filled with branded items and handwritten notes from mentors.
  
  
• WayUp, the event’s official creator, livestreamed its annual awards ceremony honouring the Top 100 Internship Programs, drawing high engagement from interns and employers alike.
  
  

These campaigns not only boosted social media impressions but also improved intern satisfaction and increased full-time conversion rates in the following recruitment cycle.

National Intern Day 2025: U.S. Internship Trends

Image source: i.pinimg.com

In 2025, internship programs across the U.S. are seeing major shifts in structure and purpose. Companies are adapting to the needs of both students and the evolving workforce. Key trends include:

• Rise of Micro-Internships: Short-term internships lasting between 1 to 4 weeks are becoming popular, especially in industries like marketing, content creation, and data analysis. These offer flexibility for students and allow companies to evaluate talent quickly.
  
  
• Remote-First and Hybrid Formats: Many organisations now offer remote or hybrid internship roles, expanding access to students from rural areas or non-traditional backgrounds who may not be able to relocate.
  
  
• Stronger Emphasis on DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion): Businesses are prioritising inclusive recruitment by partnering with HBCUs, community colleges, and minority-serving institutions. Internships are being designed to support accessibility and equal opportunity.
  
  
• Cross-Border Internship Opportunities: With global teams and digital collaboration tools, interns are increasingly working with international branches, gaining multicultural experience from home.
  
  

These 2025 trends reflect a broader transformation in how companies attract, train, and retain future talent—making internships not just entry points, but integral parts of workforce development.

How Colleges Can Join the National Intern Day Celebration

Image source: i.pinimg.com

Colleges and universities play an important role in celebrating National Intern Day by helping students feel valued and connected to the working world. They can participate in several meaningful ways:

• Highlight student success stories on social media platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram to showcase internship achievements.
  
  
• Host virtual or in-person panels featuring current and former interns to share tips and insights with other students.
  
  
• Offer resume and LinkedIn-building workshops to help students prepare for future opportunities and stand out to employers.
  
  
• Promote employer partnerships by spotlighting companies that offer strong internship programs on career center websites or newsletters.
  
  

Leading institutions like NYU, UC Berkeley, and The Ohio State University already participate in such initiatives to strengthen student engagement and build long-term internship pipelines.

Intern Day Activities for Remote Interns 

Image source: encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com

Remote interns play just as important a role and should feel equally valued on National Intern Day. To ensure they feel appreciated, companies can take simple but meaningful steps, such as:

• Hosting virtual coffee chats with executives to foster inclusion and direct interaction
  
  
• Mailing appreciation kits or sending digital gift cards as a token of gratitude
  
  
• Recording personalised thank-you video messages from mentors or team leads
  
  
• Organising a Zoom “Intern Town Hall” with fun quizzes, games, or project showcases
  
  

These thoughtful actions not only make remote interns feel connected but also strengthen company culture and engagement across locations.

The Role of Mentors on National Intern Day

Image source: i.pinimg.com

Mentors play a vital role in shaping a successful internship experience. Their guidance, support, and feedback help interns grow professionally and build confidence. On National Intern Day, managers and team leaders can actively participate by:

• Writing thoughtful LinkedIn endorsements for interns
  
  
• Attending or hosting a “feedback lunch” to share insights and suggestions
  
  
• Nominating standout interns for company-wide recognition or awards
  
  
• Recording a short video message acknowledging the intern’s contributions
  
  

Recognising mentors not only highlights their efforts but also reinforces a company culture that values growth, collaboration, and leadership development.

Read more: If you’re interested in exploring how official business records are maintained or want to verify company details, check out our step-by-step guide to using the Washington DC SOS Business Search in 2025 for everything you need to know.

Quotes to Share on National Intern Day

Image source: i.pinimg.com

Looking to celebrate your interns with a thoughtful message? These inspiring quotes are perfect for email signatures, social media posts, office banners, or virtual event slides:

• “Interns are not just the future—they’re a vital part of today’s success.”
  
  
• “Every expert was once an intern. Growth starts with opportunity.”
  
  
• “Behind every strong team is a group of interns eager to learn and lead.”
  
  

These quotes highlight the value of internships and can help boost morale and recognition during National Intern Day celebrations.

Preparing for National Intern Day: A Smart Checklist for Employers

Image source: i.pinimg.com

To make the most of National Intern Day 2025, companies should prepare in advance to ensure interns feel valued and recognised. Here's a helpful checklist for HR teams and managers:

• Mark the date: Add Thursday, July 31, 2025, to your internal calendars and team planning tools.
  
  
• Gather intern success stories: Collect short testimonials, quotes, or highlights from interns to share on social media or company newsletters.
  
  
• Plan appreciation gifts or events: Whether it's a small swag bag, a virtual celebration, or an in-person lunch, meaningful gestures go a long way.
  
  
• Organise virtual or hybrid engagement: Make sure remote interns are included through Zoom events, digital thank-you notes, or mailed gifts.
  
  
• Submit nominations for the WayUp Internship Awards: Recognise your intern program on a national level by participating in the annual awards showcasing top internship experiences.
  

Building a Long-Term Internship Strategy

Image source: i.pinimg.com

National Intern Day isn’t just about celebrating—it’s also the perfect opportunity to strengthen your internship program for long-term success. Companies can use this day to evaluate what’s working and what needs improvement. Start by collecting honest feedback from interns through short surveys or exit interviews. Review your onboarding process to ensure it sets clear expectations and supports early learning. Measure your intern-to-hire conversion rates to understand how well your program feeds into full-time roles. Finally, invest in mentor training so managers can provide guidance that’s supportive, not just supervisory.

A well-structured internship strategy improves intern satisfaction, increases retention, and strengthens your company’s future workforce.

How National Intern Day Supports Diversity in the Workplace

Image source: i.pinimg.com

National Intern Day offers a valuable opportunity for companies to celebrate and reinforce their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Many forward-thinking organisations use the day to spotlight interns from underrepresented backgrounds—including students of color, first-generation college attendees, and individuals with non-traditional education paths or career journeys. Sharing these real stories across internal platforms and social media helps humanise DEI efforts, builds credibility with future applicants, and encourages a more inclusive workplace culture. It also sends a clear message: diversity isn’t just a policy—it’s part of the company’s everyday practice and values.

What Interns Should Post on LinkedIn for National Intern Day

Image source: i.pinimg.com

On National Intern Day, LinkedIn is a great place for interns to highlight their growth and show appreciation. A strong post should include:

• A brief reflection on key skills or lessons learned during the internship
  
  
• A shout-out to mentors, team members, or managers who supported your journey
  
  
• A mention or snapshot of a specific project or achievement you contributed to
  
  
• A tone that’s professional but still authentic and personal
  
  
• Relevant hashtags such as #NationalInternDay, #InternExperience, and your company’s official tag
  
  

Sharing your experience publicly not only celebrates your progress—it also builds your online presence, helps expand your professional network, and shows potential employers that you’re serious about your future career.

Read: For companies looking to reward top interns or foster executive mentorship, organising a high-end offsite can make a lasting impression—discover more in our guide to Luxury Business Retreats: Destinations, Planning & Trends for 2025.

Conclusion

National Intern Day 2025 is more than just a trending hashtag—it’s a meaningful opportunity for companies to recognise young talent, strengthen workplace culture, and invest in the future of the workforce. For interns, it’s a moment to feel valued, reflect on their growth, and share their achievements with pride. For employers, it’s a chance to showcase mentorship, diversity, and commitment to career development. By celebrating on July 31st, organisations help shape a more supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking professional environment for years to come.

FAQs

What is National Intern Day?
National Intern Day is an annual event in the U.S. that recognises the hard work, dedication, and potential of interns across various industries. It also raises awareness about the importance of structured and inclusive internship programs.

When is National Intern Day in 2025?
National Intern Day 2025 will be celebrated on Thursday, July 31st, the last Thursday of July, as observed each year.

Who started National Intern Day?
The initiative was launched by WayUp in 2017 to promote intern appreciation and encourage companies to provide meaningful internship experiences.

What can remote interns do to celebrate?
Remote interns can share their experiences on LinkedIn, join virtual celebrations hosted by their companies, or reflect on their personal growth through blog posts, thank-you messages, or mentor shoutouts.

Why is National Intern Day important?
This day helps build stronger workplace culture, boosts intern morale, supports diversity in early career programs, and enhances employer branding for companies that publicly celebrate their interns.