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What is an internship?
The National Society for Internships and Experiential Education defines an internship as “any experience where students learn by taking on responsible roles as workers in organizations and observing and reflecting on what happens while they are there.” The purpose of an internship is to learn, observe, and reflect upon the responsibilities, career field, work environment, and the organization itself. While an internship is indeed a job with specific responsibilities, it is primarily an educational experience. Internships can range from full-time positions over the summer to working a few hours during school vacations or throughout the academic year. Internships can be paid or unpaid positions. Students can work to design a unique internship experience or apply for published openings.
Ripon College’s description of internships can be found on page 28 of the Ripon College Course Catalog.
Why should I get an internship?
When you begin looking for jobs after graduation, employers are going to look for experience. But how are you supposed to gain experience if every employer requires it? Internships are a great way to gain valuable experience!
Internships also provide excellent opportunities to apply your classroom knowledge in a professional work environment. They also grant you a trial of a particular job in a short period of time without committing to a career in the field. Sometimes realizing you don’t like a particular type of work is just as beneficial as learning that you do!
Does my major offer internships?
Many departments at Ripon College do offer internships or other unique opportunities outside of the classroom.
Links to academic departments offering internships (if your major is not listed here, please consult your advisor for additional information):
When should I do an internship?
Most departments require you to have at least 12 credit hours counting toward a major in the department as well has having junior or senior standing to assure a working knowledge of the subject area has been obtained. Some departments may require the student to declare his/her major before being able to complete an internship for credit. If you are eager to complete one before your junior year or with fewer credits in your major, you should consult your advisor. Exceptions can be made in certain cases. Internships can be completed during the school year or summer months, in most cases.
Whom should I talk to about internships?
You should start by talking to your academic advisor or the head of the department of which you would like to apply for an internship, especially if you are seeking credit. They should be able to assist you in proceeding with the internship requirements. The Career Development office can also assist you.
Can I get an internship in another state?
Yes, it is possible to get internships in another state (or country).
When should I start looking for internships?
Typically, earlier is better. In general, start looking about 6 months prior to when you want to start the internship. The search should span over a good period of time to reach employers who may not know their openings very far in advance.
How do I search for internships?
The chair of the department/major, career development, the Ripon Insider Career Center (online alumni database), and/or the alumni office are all very good sources to find information about available internships. The internet may also be helpful. Some popular websites include CareerBuilder.com, Monster.com, and MonsterTrak.com. Career Development also provides internship opportunity web sites. In addition, you may want to search local newspapers and the local Chamber of Commerce for the city in which you intend to locate. Family, friends, and other networking contacts may also be a good source for internship opportunities.
Can I get credit for an internship?
Typically, students can receive up to 4 credits for completing an internship. Each department will vary in their requirements for receiving credit hours for internships, so it is best to check with your advisor and the chair of the department. Besides the hours of work, you will likely be required to complete a project, paper, presentation, or another form of analysis. You should talk with your advisor about this before starting the internship.
How do I get credit for an internship?
Usually a proposal of your intended work and project details will be required before credit can be obtained. This proposal must be approved by your faculty advisor.
A student can register for the credits during registration by signing up for the internship course, which can be found in the course catalog. Credit is usually received during the semester of internship completion r the following semester. If the internship occurs during the summer, students often register for credits during the fall semester following internship completion. Again, this should be discussed with your advisor for approval.
Will I be paid for an internship?
Some internships are paid, while others are unpaid. A paid internship will need to be discussed with your employer. However, both will provide excellent experiences in the work force.
If I am getting credit for an internship, can I also get paid?
It is possible to receive pay and credit for an internship, but again, this will need to be discussed and pre-arranged with your advisor and the employer.
Is it possible to create my own internship, or must I do one the school has suggested?
You may create your own internship, but the guidelines will need to be laid out in advance with your advisor and with the employer to ensure the requirements for the internship are fulfilled. Your advisor and the Career Development office may also have already established internships, so you should check here first.
How can I get the most out of my internship?
Set learning goals that you want to accomplish during your internship. Meet with your supervisor regularly and don’t be afraid to ask questions and address problems you face. Give your employer helpful advice and suggestions to challenges they/you face. Be positive and take initiative. Create networking connections with your supervisor and co-workers. Keep a journal of what you do each day.
Who can help me with my resume and cover letter?
Career Development is a good place to start. Your advisor may also be willing to sit down and talk with you about your resume, but this should be done after you have something tangible to work with.
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