Gain
valuable professional experience while still in school....
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*What
is an internship?
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| An internship
is an extension of the classroom into the work environment.
Students learn theory, concepts and techniques in
the classroom that they apply in work settings. Through
internships, students gain valuable experience. |
*How
do I get started in an internship?
Contact your program coordinator
well ahead of time to make plans for your internship,
and once approved, enroll in the course. Early contact
with your program coordinator will increase the likelihood
of arranging for a desirable work site.
*How far in advance
should I plan for the internship?
Several of the programs will
not allow for internships until a student has completed
at least 12 credit hours in their major. You should allow
two months of lead time to look for an internship. Try
to plan for your internship when you are taking the fewest
courses.
*How do I find an internship
site?
Several avenues exist to identify
appropriate internship sites. Your program coordinator
may have suggestions or refer you to the Internship Specialist
in the Career Activities and Employment Center for assistance.
In addition, you should do your own research and have
a list of companies to suggest. The choice of a site is
important since internships may lead to employment.
*How much time does
it take?
During your internship, you
will work about 20 hours per week. Most internships or
field experience projects require 160 to 240 hours of
work, depending on the program. In general, internships
are complete by the end of the semester. Occasionally,
a program coordinator permits an internship to begin before
the beginning of the next semester or carry hours over
into the following semester. In planning your internship,
take into consideration the time needed for your other
classes and responsibilities.
Benefits of an internship:
*Gain work experience
*Earn college credit
*Get paid (in some cases)
*Enhance your resume
*Develop business contacts
*Gain employment (in some cases)