Experiential Learning : Internship Fundamentals
Internship Fundamentals
An internship is a work-related learning experience for individuals who wish to develop hands on work experience in a certain occupational field. Most internships are temporary assignments that last approximately three months up to a year.
An internship is any career-related experience that enhances a student's understanding of their career field of choice while offering a directed learning component to the experience. ALL MAJORS are strongly encouraged to gain career experience in their field of interest prior to graduation.
The internship may or may not be for academic credit (that is strictly determined by each academic department - see your Advisor). Some internships are paid, and some are not. Some are full-time positions for a semester, two semesters, or even a full year, while others are part-time and take place concurrently while the student is enrolled in other classes.
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- You can apply the skills you’ve learned in the classroom
- You can challenge yourself to try new things
- You can test drive future career options
- You can prove yourself to a potential future employer
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Some internships allow you to develop close mentoring relationships, while others simply immerse you in the working environment. Internships are your opportunity to prove yourself, however some tasks may be seen as boring or even menial. All experience in the work world can give you more insight into organizational behavior and individual company culture. While pursuing your internship, you can challenge your current knowledge, engage your communication skills, and network with future colleagues.
Responsibilities of the Student
- Recognize that you are representing the Eller College to the community.
- Update your career profile and current resume on eSMS.
- Maintain contact with the Internship Coordinator if any discrepancies or problems arise while in the work assignment.
- Understand and adhere to the companies' policies and procedures.
- Fulfill arrangements made with the company in regard to hours worked per week and length of work assignment.
- Follow-up at the end of the internship to give feedback on the program and to highlight your experience to other students.
Responsibilities of the Employer
- Define the duties and responsibilities of the internship position. These carefully planned work assignments should be clearly illustrated to the student and provide significant professional experience and/or training. Students should be provided with increasing responsibility as they progress through the program.
- Supervise the work of the student in a manner which provides learning value to the experience. Provide a staff member to assume responsibility for direct supervision of the student and implementation of the program.
- Explain work rules and standards of conduct clearly to the student. A company orientation is encouraged as well as inclusion in as many company functions as possible.
- Maintain communication with the Internship Coordinator to provide feedback on student progress and if any discrepancies or problems arise while in the work assignment.
- Provide feedback to the student.
Responsibilities of the Professional Development Center
- Coordinate the student’s transition to the professional work environment by advising students on proper business etiquette and standards.
- Review internship duties to ensure relevance of the tasks to the student's curriculum and/or career interest.
- Provide assistance if needed in contacting students and employers.
- Maintain contact with the student to assist in the student’s overall professional development.
- Maintain contact with the employer periodically to assess current and upcoming needs.
- Serve as a liaison between the faculty advisor, student and employer to solve any concerns or problems that may arise to ensure program success.
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