What is an internship? 
An internship is any agreed-upon experience in a work setting that is driven intentional learning goals and accompanied by sustained reflection. The idea that it is a deliberate learning experience is what distinguishes an internship from a job. Both the student and the agency are involved in creating a mutually beneficial experience. Typically, internships correspond closely with the profession or area of work in which the student is majoring and or anticipating as a career.

Top Ten Reasons to Do an Internship

1. Gain a competitive edge. STAND OUT from other candidates with your initiative and experience.
2. Leadership, team work, communication skills, work ethic, etc. Develop evidence of the attributes employers want in a candidate.
3. Network and make valuable contacts with professionals in your field of interest. You may find a mentor or connections that may lead to a job offer.
4. Reality check. Is the field really how you perceive it to be? Find out through an internship.
5. Build a solid resume with the work skills and experience for which employers look.
6. Test drive a career field. Confirm or eliminate potential career options as you plan for your future.
7. Explore your interests and abilities in a variety of fields.
8. Apply what you have learned in the classroom through hands-on application or observation of concepts in the "real world."
9. Understand the organizational culture as you interact with others in your field.
10. Earn academic credit. (Falling short of credits for graduation? Do an internship!)

Experiential learning internships should meet the following criteria:

• The student is provided a realistic exposure to what is involved in the career field. (It's not all coffee and copies!)

• The student performs substantial tasks which are of demonstrated educational significance. (Once again, it's not all coffee and copies!)

• The host organization benefits from the student's contributions whether it is in the form of a completed project or acceptable performance on the job.

Boarding the Intern"ship"

Not sure where to begin or where to look?  Schedule an appointment with the Experiential Learning Center, for the scoop on internships!