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1. What is an internship?

An internship is a supervised work experience that enhances a student鈥檚 academic and/or career skills. It gives you a chance to test out skills, abilities and interest in the 鈥渞eal world鈥� of work and at the same time develop new skills and competencies. Ideally, an internship gives you practical experience in a potential career field.

2. Why is an internship important?

Internships offer you on-the-job experience鈥攖he number one factor employers consider when hiring employees. But equally important are the networking skills you鈥檒l develop. Internships allow you to make professional contacts with people who may help you find a career position.

3. When do internships take place?

Internships are typically part-time during the school year and last one or two semesters. They can be arranged around your academic schedule. They may be full-time in the summer. Scheduling arrangements should be made between you, the internship organization and your faculty advisor or internship coordinator.

4. Do I get paid for my internship?

It varies depending on the industry and company some internships are unpaid; however, many pay regular hourly wages or offer a stipend. Some organizations require that unpaid interns seek academic credit. Questions regarding academic credit should be addressed directly to your academic department.

5. Do you have to be a junior or a senior to have an internship?

While many internships are advertised for juniors and seniors, opportunities exist for any student who has the desire and determination to take advantage of them.

6. What are the guidelines for an internship for academic credit?

You need to arrange credit with your department or intern颅ship coordinator, or contact University Career Center staff for assistance.

7. When should I begin planning for an internship?

Now! It鈥檚 best to start your planning at least one semester in advance to allow time for researching career fields and intern颅ship sites, preparing a resume and cover letter, and arranging credit.

8. What important steps should I take before seeking an internship?

Before developing an internship, be sure you don鈥檛 overlook some important steps that will lay the foundation for a positive experience. Have you considered what skills and strengths you have to offer an organization and what type of career field or internship is of interest to you?

9. How do I develop an internship opportunity?

TSU students generally find internships through one of several ways:

  • University Career Center
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  • General Internship Searches
  • Register for Handshake to have access to internship listings and to take advantage of career fairs throughout the spring and fall semesters.

Find out what opportunities are known in your department:听
Partner with the faculty or department to be notified of internship opportunities in your department.

10. How do I apply for an internship?

For most internships you will need to submit a cover letter, resume, and complete an application form. Also, be prepared for an internship interview! Interviews may be required and can often be your best chance to distinguish yourself from the masses of other applicants. Research! You can make your best impression by being prepared鈥攌now your strengths and weaknesses, know as much as possible about your prospec颅tive employer, and know what you want. For more tips on resumes, cover letters, and interviewing, look through our online resources; visit us for personal Career Assistance.

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