ÌÇÐÄVlog

The National Association of Colleges and Employers defines internships as a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skill development in a professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent.

Benefits of an Internship

• Explore career opportunities or industry fields
• Relate what you have learned in the classroom to the working world
• Take advantage of the option to complete an internship for course credit
• Learn and improve your skills
• Develop your professionalism and career-related values
• Increase your marketability for post-graduation employment

Internship Preparation

• Establish your specific goals
• Meet with a career counselor and/or academic department internship coordinator to discuss internship plans
• Identify internship opportunities using online resources, career fairs, and network contacts
• Prepare your cover letter, resume, and references
• Tailor application documents to specific positions and apply for openings
• Practice interview skills
• Follow-up with employers and send thank you notes

Internship Questions

• What kind of work environment and industry would I like to work in?
• What type of company/organization would I like to gain experience in?
• Is there opportunity for future employment with the company?
• What type of skills do I wish to develop? What would I like to gain from the experience?
• What type of work would I like to perform?
• How much time do I have to dedicate to an internship: a semester, a summer, a year?
• Am I looking for a full-time or part-time internship position?
• Can I complete the internship for academic credit, does it meet departmental requirements?
• Am I able to move to a different location or does the internship need to be in a certain location? If I am willing to move, how far?
• Will I need to travel for the internship?
• Are travel costs covered by the organization?
• Do I need any specific qualifications for the type of internship?

Internship Search Sites