Internships: Frequently Asked Questions

• What is an internship?
• Why take the time to intern? What are the benefits?
• How do I find out about internship or summer job opportunities?
• What can I expect to earn as an intern?
• Are there unpaid (volunteer) internships?
• Will my internship employer help me find housing?
• Can I get academic credit for my internship?
• What else can I do to learn about summer job/internship opportunities?

What is an internship?

An internship is a practical work experience that is either directly related to your major field of study or career interest. Typically, you work full-time for one semester during the spring or fall semester or during the summer. However, an internship may also be a six-month assignment (usually January-June or July-December) or another specified time period.

You are encouraged to consider internship opportunities other than summer, as many employers feel that summer is too short and prefer to combine it with either spring or fall semester. The more flexible you are--the greater the possibilities!

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Why take the time to intern?

Sometimes it's easy to get caught up in the mindset of "graduating on time," rather than spending an extra semester or two getting the experience you need to land the right job. More and more employers are seeking students who have had practical work experience(s) and consider the extra time you spent getting your degree invaluable. While typical student employment (not major/career related) is good, there's no substitute for practical work experience.

Some of the BENEFITS include:

• Getting meaningful work experience in your field before you graduate.
• Making yourself more marketable and gaining a competitive edge in the recruiting process.
• Earning money to pay for your education.
• Finding out if you are in the right field-"test driving" your career.
• Making good business contacts-networking.
• Learning about corporate culture & the "real world" of work.
• Identifying specific areas of interest in your field.
• Becoming more knowledgeable in your field and more confident in your full-time job search. Have a better idea of what you want to do versus what you don't want to do!
• Getting your foot in the door for a possible full-time employment offer.

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How do I find out about internship or summer job opportunities?

First you must register with Career Services using our Web based program. This will allow you to participate in on-campus interviews, be included in our Web Resume Book, and receive targeted e-mail messages about special events and job opportunities. Remember to check the recruiting bulletin every week so you won't miss any resume submittal deadlines and possible interviews. Registering is the first step. Then you must submit your resume electronically to each employer you are interested in.

Be sure to attend the Summer Job & Internship Fair - an annual event held in February. Don't miss this opportunity to talk with 80-100 employers who are seeking students for summer jobs and internships!

Check out the Internship & Summer Job Opportunity Web sites where you will find a wealth of information about various types of career-related work.

Check the Summer Job/Internship Bulletin Board located in the Career Services Lobby, 100 Dunford Hall, for summer job & internship postings.

Take a look at the Summer Job & Internship Directories available for your use in our Career Resource Center, Some of the resources we have include The Complete Guide to Washington Internships, America's Top Internships, The Internship Bible, Overseas Summer Jobs, and the National Directory of Internships.

Career Services can help you identify internship opportunities, but you must take the initiative for conducting your own search. Remember, we provide you with the information and it's your responsibility to follow through and take the appropriate action!

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What Can I Expect to Earn as an Intern?

Most internships are paid positions in which students earn competitive salaries. You can expect to earn approximately 70-80 percent of the salary paid to a new graduate. In any event, you should earn enough to pay your living expenses and still save money for school. Some employers will also provide a housing subsidy and/or a specified amount for moving expenses.

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Are there Unpaid (volunteer) Internships?

Unpaid internships are primarily found in the non-profit sector and should consist of work for which the employer would not normally expect to pay wages. Specific learning objectives should be identified, and over 50% of your time should be spent in a shadowing and/or learning mode. While some unpaid internships can offer good work experience, you must determine if your situation will allow you to work for no pay.

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Will my internship employer help me find housing?

Employers typically assist interns in locating suitable housing. Generally you will be referred to a relocation service for information on affordable housing. You will also be provided with the names of other interns who may be seeking roommates. Some employers have housing arrangements for their interns, but usually it is your responsibility to secure a place to live.

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Can I get academic credit for my internship?

Questions concerning receiving academic credit for an internship should be directed to the appropriate academic department before you report to work. Career Services does not award academic credit for internships, nor is there any automatic credit. In select fields of study, an internship can qualify for academic credit only if it is a curriculum requirement for graduation.

Some academic departments grant credit for approved internships during a regular school term (fall or spring semester). However, you must register and pay the appropriate fees for the credit hours during the semester in which you are interning. In addition, you may be required to write a short paper or do a class project in order to receive the credit hours. Most departments will not grant academic credit for part-time or summer work.

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What else can I do to learn about summer job/internship opportunities?

• Check with your academic department and/or advisor for information and/or postings about summer jobs or internships. Some employers contact faculty members directly, and we may not be aware of these opportunities.
• Take advantage of all your networking opportunities. In addition to the usual contacts (friends, family, current/former employers, classmates, faculty members, etc.), there are many other networking avenues you can pursue. You may learn about summer job/internship openings through newspapers, newsletters, job fairs, work/study abroad programs, hometown contacts, professional associations, student organizations, trade magazines, community service/volunteer groups, etc.
• Have a plan that includes a great resume and cover letter, appropriate follow-through, good record keeping, and follow-up. Be prepared, open-minded, flexible, and professional. Be persistent in your internship search. Remember, it's up to you to make all your contacts count!

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