Students

Internships

What is an internship?

An internship is a short-term entry-level job that allows students to gain practical work experience in their chosen field while still enrolled in college. Interns typically work with seasoned professionals within an organization to learn from their expertise as the intern tries out various aspects of the job.

Why should I get an internship?

Students who pursue an internship (or more than one) during college develop practical skills related to their chosen field, gain experience to add to their resume, add to their professional network, and gain a better understanding of their desired career path. 

Additionally, national research shows that students who engage in internships greatly increase their chances of career employment after graduating, even earning a higher starting wage than applicants without such experience. Interns who perform well just might secure a full-time job offer from their employer before they even graduate!

Will I get paid for an internship? How about earn academic credit?

Many internships offered through the university's Handshake platform are paid but some are not. Explore Handshake for interships related to your field of interest to get a better understanding of what to expect.

Contact your campus Center for Career & Professional Development office to explore how you might earn academic credit for an internship. 

When should I get an internship?

The best time to pursue an intership depends on your individual circumstances, academic program and career goals.

If you are uncertain about your major or career field, get started early to allow you more opportunities to explore your interests and talents.

By the time you are a sophomore or junior, you are likely enrolled in classes contributing to your major, so an internship will allow you to start applying your newly-gained classroom knowledge to real-world work and discovering what aspects appeal the most to you. Keep in mind that some interships may have prerequisites that will drive your timing.

Internships are typically part-time (especially during the academic year) but some may be full-time during the summer, allowing you to really immerse yourself into the experience.

Where do I go to find an internship?

Contact your campus Center for Career & Professional Development and your academic advisor for advice, guidance and resources to help you take advantage of all that interships offer you.  Then explore Handshake to look for posted opportunities.