What Is an Internship and What Are the Benefits? Internships offer learning experiences outside of the classroom. They  enhance students' academic and career goals. An internship can help you "test drive" a possible career path. An internship is the perfect way to connect your academic experience with the professional work world. It allows you to gain valuable exposure to the workplace, provides the opportunity for skill development, and gives you a competitive edge in the job search. Internships are available to all students, undergraduate and graduate, that are I good academic standing.
In addition, internships: - Help students in career decision-making.
- Facilitate networking contacts, potentially establishing mentoring relationships.
- Can provide financial assistance.
- Teach effective job search, resume writing and interviewing techniques.
- Give a competitive edge in employment after graduation, since many employers look for relevant work experience.
- May allow students to receive academic credit depending upon the major.
The internship program encompasses two major types of experiential learning: Internships and Cooperative Education . The term internship is used in a general way to include both of these.
Internships These are generally short-term, voluntary or paid, learning experiences. The most popular type of internship is part-time, 10 to 20 hours per week during the academic year. This schedule allows students to continue with their course work during the internship. Summer is a preferred period for full-time (40 hours/week) internships.
Cooperative Education (Co-ops) These are similar to internships with respect to providing students with work experience that both enhances their academic progress and increases their employability after graduation. Co-ops are always paid positions. Students may alternate periods of full-time work with full-time classroom study, or they may work part-time for two or more academic quarters while also attending classes.
How Do I Get Started? For a full understanding of the Internship Program we suggest an Internship Orientation . A Virtual Orientation is also available if scheduling conflicts prevent you from attending.
At the orientation, information covered will include: the benefits of an internship, how to locate an internship, how to document your experience, how to receive academic credit if desired, use of our Internship Database, and how to obtain evaluations or recommendations from internship employers.
Need More Help? Intern Program Contact Information
Michelle Knighton , 951.827.3834
On-Campus Recruitment Coordinator
Lora Lopez , 951.827.2734
Student Employment Coordinator
Linda LaTendresse , 951.827.2736
Assistant Director, Employer Relations and Recruiting
Frank Ramirez , 951. 827.2735
Internship Coordinator, Employer Relations
| | SCOTLink Login
|