- What is an internship?
- What is the value of an internship?
- Are internships paid or non-paid positions?
- How can I get academic credit for an internship?
- How can I get help finding an internship?
| What is an internship? |
Internships are situations where you work for an employer for a specified length of time to learn about a particular industry or occupation. Assignments are either directly related to your major field of study or career interest. Internships are typically part-time for one quarter either during the regular school year or during the summer. However, internships may also be six-month assignments (usually January-June or July-December) or even full-time for a specified time period, depending on the employer’s needs. The work experience may take place parallel to your classes, or be on an alternating schedule with coursework.
| What is the value of an internship? |
There is no substitute for practical work experience. No longer are just high grades, good communication skills, some summer or part-time work experience, and participation in extracurricular activities enough! In today’s competitive job market, students with career-related work experience are the students who are getting the best interviews and job offers. Through internships, you get your foot in the door, gain valuable work experience, earn money (in most cases) to defray college costs, identify specific areas of interest you were not aware of, make valuable personal contacts, and learn about the "real world" in general. Internship experience looks great on your resume. And, these are only a few of the benefits!
Many employers use their internship program as a pre-recruiting tool, and some employers consider only former interns for full-time positions. It’s a win-win situation for both employers and students. However, there is no obligation on the employer’s part to offer you a permanent position, and if an offer is extended, you are not obligated to accept.
| Are internships paid or non-paid positions? |
There are paid internships in which you earn competitive salaries, and there are non-paid situations, which provide outstanding learning opportunities. The situation varies with the industry and organization. Some employers offer monthly or quarterly stipends to students, to defray transportation and living costs.
If non-paid, specific learning objectives should be identified and over 50% of the time should be spent in a shadowing and/or learning mode. Cooperative Education Work Experience credits should always be awarded for non-paid internships. In addition, employers should consider liability factors for, such as paying Worker’s Compensation Insurance to their non-paid interns.
| How can I get academic credit for an internship? |
Questions concerning receiving academic credit Cooperative Education Work Experience should be directed to the appropriate academic department, or to the Employment Services Center. Clark’s professional/technical and transfer programs include co-op either as an elective or as a graduation requirement.
| How can I get help finding an internship? |
There are a number of ways to learn about internship opportunities. The Internship and Job Developer in Gaiser Hall can help you identify employers to contact. Currently available internships are posted in the Employment Services Center.
We suggest that you also check with your instructors for employer names. Some employers contact faculty members directly and we may not be aware of these openings. Check in your department to see if these opportunities are posted.
Take advantage of all your networking opportunities. In addition to making contacts through friends, family, current/former employers, classmates, alumni, and faculty members, there are many other networking avenues you can pursue. You may learn about internship openings through newspapers, newsletters, job fairs, work/study abroad programs, professional associations, student organizations, trade magazines, community service/volunteer groups and many more.
While there is a great deal of information available, you must be persistent in your internship search. Have a plan that includes a great resume and cover letter, appropriate follow-through/follow-up and good record keeping. Be prepared, open-minded, flexible and professional.
Please do not depend on someone to "find you an internship." Take the initiative yourself. If you look into all opportunities and give yourself enough lead time to do so, your chances of obtaining a meaningful internship are much greater.
Please contact Employment Services for further information.
