2008 Woodie Awards
Internships: Resourceful Pays Off
Philip Seyfried
Issue date: 11/1/06 Section: Submissions
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The process of getting an internship is both exciting and intimidating for those new to the procedure. Interns have the advantage of being able to get experience in their field of study and receive the opportunity to network with potential future employers. The value of an internship should not be underestimated, but before any motivated student can start an internship a few key steps must be followed.
As a student the first thing you should do is get in touch with the internship coordinator of your major's department. All internships are handled within each department on campus. Do not expect to find a single director for all the internship opportunities available on and off campus. If you are unsure of which professor coordinates internships, ask the department's secretary to direct you to the correct person.
Never be afraid to ask questions. The coordinator is there to assist you. Consider all the internship opportunities available to you and find out the details of each one.
Many departments offer exciting and interesting internships, but have a realistic attitude about the amount of time you can commit. Remember, as an intern you will want to make a good impression. Do not make promises you cannot keep and do not overbook your schedule. You may find that there are currently no available internships for your major. If this is the case do not give up. Check in with your advisor periodically to find out if any new opportunities are available and ask your advisor to keep you in mind if a new internship becomes available. Also, don't forget to talk to your professors. They can offer valuable advice and may be able to help you discover rare opportunities.
It is always beneficial to take the initiative when searching for internships. Become your own advocate by utilizing the Internet and contacting different companies and organizations that interest you. Find out if they have, or will have, any positions available for interns. Keep in mind that William Paterson University offers up to three credits for working in an internship program; therefore, if you find an internship through your own research it is important to speak with your advisor to confirm that those credits will be awarded. Also, there are a certain number of hours that must be devoted to the internship. It is best to find this information out beforehand and make sure that you can work that into your schedule.
As a student the first thing you should do is get in touch with the internship coordinator of your major's department. All internships are handled within each department on campus. Do not expect to find a single director for all the internship opportunities available on and off campus. If you are unsure of which professor coordinates internships, ask the department's secretary to direct you to the correct person.
Never be afraid to ask questions. The coordinator is there to assist you. Consider all the internship opportunities available to you and find out the details of each one.
Many departments offer exciting and interesting internships, but have a realistic attitude about the amount of time you can commit. Remember, as an intern you will want to make a good impression. Do not make promises you cannot keep and do not overbook your schedule. You may find that there are currently no available internships for your major. If this is the case do not give up. Check in with your advisor periodically to find out if any new opportunities are available and ask your advisor to keep you in mind if a new internship becomes available. Also, don't forget to talk to your professors. They can offer valuable advice and may be able to help you discover rare opportunities.
It is always beneficial to take the initiative when searching for internships. Become your own advocate by utilizing the Internet and contacting different companies and organizations that interest you. Find out if they have, or will have, any positions available for interns. Keep in mind that William Paterson University offers up to three credits for working in an internship program; therefore, if you find an internship through your own research it is important to speak with your advisor to confirm that those credits will be awarded. Also, there are a certain number of hours that must be devoted to the internship. It is best to find this information out beforehand and make sure that you can work that into your schedule.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Victoria Wefer
posted 11/13/06 @ 10:58 AM EST
This article is very informative and concise. I will pass this valuable information on to many of my college friends and affiliates. THANK YOU, MR. SEYFRIED!
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