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Egypt’s Intern Epidemic: Wastas and No Future

November 24, 2020

Like most other 20-something males graduating from college in Egypt, Mahmoud Shehab had an awkward six month period between graduation and his military service, when he couldn’t commit to a full-time job. In that time, what made the most sense to him was pursuing internships, which more than often tend to be unpaid with the benefit of learning something new. Shehab secured a six-month internship at an advertising agency, with every three months in a different department, but trouble started brewing in the fourth month when it came time for him to apply to the military and he got an unexpected exemption. “I sat with my manager and asked him if I had a chance in a full-time job and if I should push for it or if they’re not looking to hire, if I’m not a good fit,” Shehab told Egyptian Streets. His manager encouraged him to pursue a full-time job, saying that he’d be a good fit with him knowing the company and being familiar with everyone. “I went to talk to HR and she told me she’ll discuss it with the senior management and see. Keep in…


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