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• What is an internship?
• Why should I have and internship?
• When should I intern?
• What is the application, approval and registration procedure?
• What are the basic criteria for internship positions?

What is an internship?

An Internship is an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge and skills in a professional setting of the communication field of your chosen career.

Why should I have and internship?

EDUCATIONAL REWARDS
Many students find that this stage of college education is one of the most rewarding because internships provide actual application of classroom learning. It is often at this point that students are first able to put the pieces of the college/career puzzle together.

PROFESSIONAL REWARDS
Many employers in communication fields only hire people with direct experience. Through internships students gain opportunities for networking and often receive offers for paid positions, which can lead to full time positions after graduation.

PERSONAL REWARDS
Finally, students often make career decisions based on the learning accomplished during the internship. Internships allow students to experiment with their chosen field to determine which areas best suit their abilities and interests.

When should I intern?

Students are encouraged to accomplish several internships prior to graduation. Communication majors are required to complete one internship along with the internship class for credit. The internship class requires junior or senior standing and may be repeated once for credit.

What is the application, approval and registration procedure?
Steps & Timeline

1. Secure an internship. Students can do this through career services or through a search of her/his own.
2. Communicate with the internship instructor to receive course authorization.
3. Register for the internship class.

What are the basic criteria for internship positions?

• Intern position must be directly related to field of communication.
• Clerical work may not constitute more than 15% of the job and must be relevant to the intern's other responsibilities.
• Interns must work a minimum of 130-150 hours over the semester.
• An on-site supervisor must be willing and able to mentor the intern and evaluate the intern's professional communication skills and abilities.