Should companies require prior experience for entry-level jobs and internships?
In today’s job market, many entry-level positions and internships list prior experience as a requirement, even though these roles are often intended to be a starting point for new graduates or first-time workers. This practice has sparked ongoing debate about fairness, accessibility, and the purpose of entry-level employment. This discussion explores whether companies should require prior experience for entry-level jobs and internships. Participants are invited to consider how experience should be defined, what employers reasonably expect from beginners, and how such requirements affect opportunity, workforce development, and social mobility. The debate also raises broader questions about how labor markets balance efficiency, training, and inclusion in an increasingly competitive economy.

