Internships - Frequently Asked Questions:

When should I start looking for an internship?

For some competitive internships, deadlines can be as early as October or November for the following summer, but usually a March application for a summer internship will suffice.

Allow yourself two months to find and secure an internship.

Though it's tougher to locate an internship when you're a freshman, it's never too early. However, many companies prefer juniors and seniors, so keep that in mind. Remember that you can certainly do more than one internship before you graduate!

Are all internships paid?

About half are. Areas like finance, business and computer science tend to pay (and pay higher). Areas like communications and liberal arts tend not to. But remember…you are gaining valuable experience. And you can often complement your internship with a part-time job.

If you're not living at home, or with friends or family, please take into consideration your budget. You'll need enough for room, food, travel expenses, etc. Something to consider…if you're thinking about a summer internship in a major city and need a fairly inexpensive place to stay, contact colleges/universities in the area and ask about dorm space.

Should I do an internship for credit?

Discuss this with your academic adviser or department internship coordinator. Some majors require a credit experience. Some internship sites (like television stations) require that you do their unpaid internship for credit. For a 20 hour per week/10-week summer internship, you'll usually get 6 credits; some 40 hour per week internships may earn 9-12 credits. Requirements like keeping a journal and writing a final evaluation paper are common. The Career Development Center will help all students who are looking for either a for-credit or not-for-credit internship.

Should I accept an internship offer sight (or site) unseen?

Never. Always meet with your potential supervisor at the work site and discuss EXACTLY what you'll be doing as an intern. You don't want any surprises that first day of work. You might want to ask:

What have past interns done?

• What chances will I have to observe?
• What kind of training would I receive?
• What kind of supervision would I get?

How can I take the most advantage of my internship?

• Don't be afraid to talk with people. Don't be intimidated because you're a student.
• Don't wait to be told what to do. Solving problems/taking initiative help make you stand out.
• Learn all you can about the industry. Talk to different departments, clients and vendors.
• Read everything you can get your hands on.
• Don't gripe about the grunt work. Learn how the small tasks fit into the big picture.
• Milk the fact that you ARE a student. It's non-threatening and gives you more access.
• Hitch your wagon to a star. Learn from those who are the best performers.
• Get in the information loop. Decisions aren't always made in a conference room.
• Ask to attend meetings and events. Learn how things are REALLY done.
• Don't burn any bridges. You never know when you will see someone later in your career.