Career Internship

• A supervised work experience that is designed to provide structured learning opportunities
• Generally, minimum of one semester; however, can be project based
• May be paid or unpaid
• May offer academic credit upon completion

An Internship is:

• Is related to the student's field of study
• Provides on-the-job training & an opportunity to learn additional skills
• Is designed to meet specific learning objectives
• May be required to graduate
• May be supplemented with additional academic assignments
• Has a defined end date

Internships provide an opportunity to:

• “Test-drive” a career field of interest without committing yourself long-term
• Explore career options related to one's interests, values, skills & personality
• Gain career-related work experience and skills for your resume
• Gather insight into a particular industry or organizational culture
• Establish connections & build a network of contacts
• Integrate what you’ve learned in the classroom into the “real world” professional environment
• Introduce you to workplace situations not typically found in classroom experiences

Steps to Obtaining an Internship:

1. Consider the skills you may want to develop
   1. What skills do you lack? Or require improvement?
   2. What environment will provide you with the opportunity to develop these skills?
   3. What fields do you want to explore?
   4. Develop a specific goal
2. Schedule an appointment with a Career Counselor to update your resume

Check out our Resource Guide for resume samples

1. Obtain recommendation letters & prepare your references
2. Research industries and companies of interest
3. Begin your search 3-6 months prior
   1. Tell everyone you know (including faculty) that you are looking for an internship
   2. Attend Career Fairs
   3. Join professional organizations
   4. Attend professional mixers & meetings
   5. Utilize our online internship search engines
   6. Utilize your social network and resources
4. Apply!
5. Once you know all your options and you have narrowed down the opportunities that interest you, you need to begin the application process!