Starting an Internship Program

The first question to ask is "what makes this an internship instead of a part-time job?" An internship should be seen as an extension of a student's learning. So, while a student will bring valuable knowledge, ideas and another set of hands into your organization, you should be prepared to serve as a teacher and mentor.

We discourage using regular employment as an internship opportunity when it was not specifically designed as such.

You should be willing and prepared to provide the structure for the internship experience and serve as a resource for questions and concerns. For many students, an internship is the first step in their professional career. The best internship placements include the following:

• A clearly delineated position description.
  
  
• Duties and responsibilities that are not haphazardly determined nor purely clerical in nature.
  
  
• A specific work area for the intern.
  
  
• Exposure to other professional staff, clientele, etc. (as appropriate) for professional growth.
  
  
• Opportunities for mentoring as appropriate.
  
  
• Opportunities for feedback and discussion.

Students should have the chance to learn new skills, explore career interests, and meet new social and intellectual challenges. A position consisting primarily of clerical tasks such as filing and copying would not be considered an internship.

We provide information and advice throughout this website. If you need additional support, please contact the Undergraduate Programs Office of the Foster School at 206.685.3400 or the Center for Career Services. We look forward to working with you!

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