Internships provide a structured, professional experience that give students the opportunity to learn more about a career interest and gain valuable knowledge in a
particular field. In an internship, the purpose is to receive mentorship, supervision, and training. Internships assist
students in the career exploration process to determine if that path matches
their interests and skills.
Internships:
·
Test
your skills and interests
·
Allow
you to explore different career paths
·
Develop
a network of professional contacts for future opportunities and references
·
Provide
valuable professional experience related to your field of study
·
Allow
you to apply what you have learned in the classroom
·
Build
a strong resume
·
Can
lead to future employment
How Early Should I Begin Planning for an
Internship?
Take your first semester in college and get
acclimated but after you are settled, consider talking to Career Services about
internships and how to develop an internship search strategy. If you are
not sure what you want to do, exploring various fields will help you decide which path matches your interests, passions, and goals.
When Are Internships Available?
Internships are available year-round.
How Early Should I Begin Applying?
Application deadlines vary from
organization to organization. Some internship positions in large
organizations or very competitive programs have deadlines
as early as October, November, or December for summer. Others will have deadlines in the weeks leading up to the start date. It all depends on the organization and their hiring
process.
How Many Hours Should I Work at an
Internship?
Internships can be full or part-time
depending on the organization. If you decide to intern during the
fall and spring semesters, it is recommended that you work 10 - 15 hours a week
maximum.
Are Internships Paid or Unpaid?
Internships can be paid or unpaid depending
on the organization and career field.
Cooperative Education
This program allows
you to earn academic credit for internship experience. Please contact Shelly
Oliver shelly.oliver@rockhurst.edu
for eligibility and how to get started.
