Internship Best Practices

Internship Best Practices

CLAS Unit Heads

September 28, 2011

Tim Penning, PhD, APR

Associate Professor

Administrative/Faculty Best Practices

Internship opportunities posted in Laker Jobs, but also unit-specific online listings (via Blackboard group for internships)

Information sessions for students—to review everything from when to do an internship in college career, how to find an internship, evaluating good opportunities, and the process for receiving credit for internships.

Other faculty involvement (not just internship coordinator). Able to advise students on number of credits, etc., see internships as part of curriculum.

The online internship system (maintained by Career Services)

·  Students, having found an internship, fill out an Internship Agreement.

·  An email is automatically sent to the employer they list on the agreement, who is asked to approve and/or comment.

·  An email is automatically sent to the faculty member who is the student’s/major internship coordinator for approval.

·  Faculty member reviews students’ courses completed, hours proposed in internship relative to credits requested, job description, etc. If appropriate, enters permit in Banner and approves internship.

·  Student is automatically notified of approval and need to register in Banner.

·  Student and employer sent requests for evaluation at end of internship

·  Faculty member can review all evaluations online

Online system advantages

·  Significant reduction in paperwork

·  Automated functions

·  Ability to sort and send group emails enables reminders to students

·  Facilitates relationships with employers

Internship Best Practices Relevant to Students

·  Should have minimum level/number of coursework completed to be able to apply knowledge/skills in internship setting;

·  Need reminders on professional workplace etiquette, work ethic

·  Should be required to demonstrate integration of coursework – essay as well as evaluations

·  Internship experience essays a useful assessment tool

Internship Best Practices Relevant to Employers

·  Should have defined job description, with relevant experience

·  Should understand academic nature of internships and be prepared to supervise and instruct student

·  Should understand interviewing and hiring is part of the experience (i.e. students seek, apply for, are interviewed for internships, not “send me an intern”)

·  Should have access to curriculum (course descriptions) so they are clear on student preparation and faculty expectations for internship experience

·  Ideally, will have degree and experience in student’s major area