Internships & Job Shadowing

What is an internship?
"An academic internship is a form of experiential education that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skill development in a professional setting. Students earn academic credit, or there is some other connection to a degree‐granting, educational institution. This work/learning arrangement is overseen by a faculty or staff member of an educational institution and by a designated employee of an organization. The internship is usually the length or equivalent of an academic term, may be part‐time or full‐time, paid or unpaid. An integral component of the experience that distinguishes it from other types of work is one or more forms of structured and deliberate reflection contained within learning agendas or objectives."

(formulated by subscribers to the Internship‐Net Listserv - May 2010)

An internship should meet the following criteria:

  • The student experiences 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.

Why should I consider doing an Internship?
  • Test drive your chosen career as a student while you still have time to adjust your academic choices, or confirm that your plans for the future are on-target.
  • Employers like to hire applicants with relevant experience. Through interning you will gain a competitive edge, and stand out from other candidates with your initiative and experience.
  • "Soft skills" such as leadership, team work, communication skills, work ethic, etc. are all honed through hands-on experience, and are what employers want in a candidate.
  • Networking. Make valuable contacts with professionals in your field of interest. You may find a mentor or connections that may lead to a job offer.
  • Build a solid resume with the work skills and experience for which employers look.
  • Explore your interests and abilities in a variety of fields.
  • Apply what you have learned in the classroom through hands-on application or observation of concepts in the "real world."
  • Understand the organizational culture as you interact with others in your field.
  • Earn academic credit.

Am I eligible for an Internship?

Non-credit Internships:
Most students are eligible to complete an internship without earning credit. Any student interested in participating in a non-credit internship opportunity should meet with a member of the CDC staff to be sure that they are eligible to complete the internship.

Credit-bearing Internships:
Juniors and Seniors who have a cumulative GPA of 2.3 or above are eligible to complete internships for 1,2, or 3 credits per semester (maximum of 6 credits overall) for internships.

International Students:
All international students considering an internship or external summer research opportunity must contact Nancy Goulde in the Office of International Student Services to discuss their visa and eligibility before applying for the experience.

How do I get started?

Not sure where to begin? Schedule an appointment with the Career Development Center for the scoop on internships!