AI Automation Reshapes Intern Roles, Creating New Corporate Challenges
Artificial intelligence is automating traditional intern tasks, leading to a lack of meaningful work. Companies now face the challenge of assigning more complex responsibilities to untrained interns.
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is fundamentally altering the nature of internships. Historically, interns often handled administrative grunt work, such as data entry and report drafting. However, AI tools have now automated many of these tasks, leaving interns with less traditional work and creating new dilemmas for companies.
This shift can lead to a "new kind of boredom" for interns, as described by business consultancy Korn Ferry, if engaging tasks are not provided. In response, some organizations are assigning novices more consequential roles typically reserved for experienced employees. This necessitates greater workplace responsibility and decision-making from individuals who may lack the necessary training and experience.
The change presents a "feast or famine" scenario for early-career professionals. Instead of learning workflow management and decision-making through repetitive tasks, interns are now being plunged into complex roles. This can be daunting, as interns may fear making costly errors or struggle with responsibilities without adequate guidance.
Korn Ferry notes that AI is replacing drudgery with a different cognitive burden, requiring fact-checking and critical thinking rather than inherent judgment. Companies now expect interns to be proficient with AI tools to focus on problem-solving and human skills.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of these new roles is hampered by a potential lack of mentorship. A survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) found nearly 20 percent of 2025 interns reported having no mentor. Mentors are crucial for guiding interns, providing a sounding board, and preventing fear of making mistakes on assigned tasks.