Internships
can be full- or part-time, short- or long-term, paid
or
unpaid, for credit or not for credit, self-directed
or
led
by a mentor, or
any combination of the above. While there is no minimum
or
maximum length for an internship, it does ordinarily
require a
sustained commitment over a period of time such as
a semester.
What is an internship?
An
internship is a supervised work experience
that enhances a
student’s academic and/or career
skills. It gives you a chance to
test out skills,
abilities and interest
in the “real
world” of work
and at the same time
develop new skills
and competencies.
Ideally, an internship
gives you practical
experience in a potential
career field.
Why
is an internship
important?
Internships
offer you on-the-job experience—the
number one
factor employers
consider when hiring
employees. But equally
important are the
networking skills
you’ll develop. Internships
allow you to make
professional contacts
with people who may
help you find a career
position.
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When do internships take place?
Internships are typically part-time during
the school year and
last one or two semesters.
They can be arranged
around your academic
schedule. They may
be full-time in the
summer. Scheduling
arrangements should
be made between you,
the internship
organization and
your faculty advisor or
internship coordinator.
Do I get paid for my internship?
Many
internships are unpaid;
however, some pay regular
hourly wages or offer
a small stipend. Some
organizations
require that unpaid
interns seek academic
credit. Questions
regarding credit should
be addressed to the internship
coordinator in your
department.
Do you have to be a junior or senior to have
an internship?
While many internships are advertised for
juniors and
seniors, opportunities
exist for any student
who has the desire
and determination to
take advantage of them.
What are the guidelines for an internship
for academic credit?
Once you have completed 60 credit hours you
are eligible to receive
credit for an internship.
You need to arrange
credit with your department
or internship
coordinator.
When should I begin planning for an internship?
Now!
It’s best to start your planning at least
one semester in advance to allow time for
researching career fields and internship
sites, preparing a resume and cover letter, and
arranging credit.
How do I apply for an internship?
For
most internships you will need to submit a cover
letter, resume, and complete an application form.
Also, be prepared
for an internship interview! Interviews may be required
and can often be your best chance to distinguish
yourself from the
masses of other applicants.
Research!
You can make your best
impression by being prepared—know your strengths and
weaknesses, know as much as possible about your prospective
employer, and know what you want.
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