Career Corner: Internships
The internship experience is an extension of learning that takes place in a classroom, and it should integrate knowledge and practical application. Defined goals, outcomes, feedback, and reflection are all features of internships and are valuable out-of-class learning experiences for your student.
- Understand that internships vary. Some are paid and some are not; some require a student to be enrolled for academic credit while others do not. It is important for students to assess their personal situations when choosing internships that are the best fit. Students should check with their career advisors to see whether they can receive academic credit for their internship experience.
- Encourage your student to utilize his or her summers. Internships are a great way to explore a chosen career field and assess if it is truly what interests your student. Internships happen year-round, and summer is great time for continued learning.
- At times, students participate in six- to eight-month internships during the academic year to expand upon classroom learning rather than enrolling in classes. It is another way of educating students and enabling them to apply their classroom knowledge. For some majors, students can maintain their “full-time status” if engaged in an internship for credit. Again, it is important for your student to assess his or her situation when making this decision.
- International internships are a wonderful way to combine two high-impact learning experiences: study abroad and an internship. Local or online courses are often a feature of these internships, allowing students to incorporate academic learning as they live and work abroad. Students should contact the International Internship Program or the Study Abroad office for more information.
- Financial aid is sometimes available for internships. Your student can find out more information from the Office of Student Financial Aid.