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What is an Internship? Why are Internships Important? Getting Academic Credit for an Internships FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions) Internship Sites / Links
• A part-time or full-time job during the academic year or the summer months in which a student receives supervised practical training in their field of study. • Internships are usually related to the student's academic and career goals, and may serve as a precursor to professional employment. • Some internships provide very close supervision by a mentor in an apprenticeship-like relationship. • You will perform work for the intern site just as an employee would, but generally with closer supervision. You will be expected to report to your internship site on time and as scheduled. You will be expected to take your duties and assignments seriously and be professional. • Most internships are a mixture of formal and informal training, education, and fun. Back to Top • You can get real experience in your field of study. How often do you see job ads for someone "with experience?" Well, this is one way to get experience. • You'll develop professional skills and work habits that employers look for in your field. • You'll have the opportunity to start developing professional contacts and start networking. • You'll get a look at the professional work setting. This will help you realize if this is a work environment you could be in on a daily basis. • Internships can help you decide if this is really what you want to do. Is this it exactly? Is there some other related area in the same business that is more suited to you? • If you realize this isn't the setting for you, you can modify your plans. Back to Top Most departments/majors at SIUC allow students to intern for academic credit, and each department sets the specific guidelines and policies for their students. You may be able to substitute an internship for an elective or required course. Some departments will not let you intern for credit unless you meet specific criteria such as GPA, class rank (sophomore, junior), having some fundamental courses in the major already completed, etc. SO, if you're thinking about an internship for academic credit: • At least one semester before you plan to intern make sure you meet your department's requirements. Start by getting in touch with your academic advisor . He or she will be able to help you or refer you to the internship coordinator for your major. • You need to find out specifically what is required of you and your employer, such as • What are the academic and registration requirements? • Can I get credit for the internship and/or use it as a substitute for another course? • How will your employer go about reporting your performance/job evaluation? • Do you have to write a final paper, keep a log, etc.? Don't let this overwhelm you-it's usually not a big deal. There will be a few forms to fill out and procedures to follow and everything will fall into place IF YOU FOLLOW YOUR MAJOR'S/DEPARTMENT'S POLICIES. |