Navigating Academic Burnout: Lived Experiences Among College Interns

This qualitative study examines the lived experiences of college interns as they navigate academic burnout, shedding light on the emotional, cognitive, and physical processes involved in balancing academic responsibilities and internship demands. Through in-depth interviews, interns shared narratives of feeling overwhelmed, emotionally exhausted, and at times disconnected from their academic and professional roles. Despite these challenges, their accounts also highlight the critical importance of mentorship and the positive impact of self-nurturing practices such as self-care routines, emotional regulation, and seeking social support as effective strategies for reducing burnout and fostering resilience. The findings underscore the pressing need for educational institutions to provide comprehensive resources and invest in supportive infrastructures that prioritize interns’ mental health and overall well-being. Implementing targeted interventions, such as structured mentoring programs, mental health workshops, and time management training, can help create a healthier and more sustainable internship experience. Furthermore, this study offers actionable insights for educators, academic leaders, and internship coordinators, encouraging them to develop policies and programs that address the root causes of academic burnout. It also provides practical recommendations for interns, guiding them to build personal support systems and adopt coping strategies that promote both academic success and emotional well-being. Ultimately, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of academic burnout and emphasizes the collective responsibility of institutions, mentors, and interns in creating a supportive and thriving internship environment.