Review the questions below as you begin developing an internship for SRJC students. Then review the expectations of job site supervisors.
- What is an internship?
Internships are designed by the employer to meet their organizational needs, while providing for the educational and training needs of the Intern. They offer students an opportunity to expand their education by putting classroom theory into practice, test tentative career choices, and build their professional experience in preparation for graduation. Interns make a short-term commitment to work for an employer to gain valuable experience to the work environment as it relates to their academic major.
The employer, in turn, commits to providing a learning experience and specific work assignments related to a student’s studies. They will also provide a structured work opportunity with supervision that ensures the student will gain valuable skills and knowledge.- How do interns contribute to the organization?
Interns are a valuable resource. They may:
- Assist with special projects (tackle a “wish list”), organize research projects, plan special events, and develop special promotional campaign.
- Provide additional help during peak business periods.
- Offer fresh, creative perspectives and energy.
- Contribute experience with research techniques, computer skills, and current theoretical knowledge.
- Serve as additional staff at minimal cost without making a long-term commitment.
- Provide an organization with low-risk opportunity to try out a possible new employee for a future job opening.
- What organizational support will an intern need?
When hosting an intern at your employment site, consider the following:
- Who will supervise and guide the intern?
- Where will the intern’s work area be located? Do they need equipment?
- What kind of orientation and training will the intern need?
- What hours will the intern work?
- How much will the intern be paid?
- Inform other staff members regarding the intern’s schedule and duties.
- Should an internship job description be developed?
The first step is to write the internship position description as if you were seeking a new part-time employee. Include the following:
- A brief description of the organization and its mission
- Position title; roles and responsibilities of the intern
- Skills and qualifications required or preferred
- Hourly pay rate and other compensation/benefits
- Start/end dates of the internship
- How to apply for the internship including attaching a resume and cover letter
- How do I recruit student interns?
List the internship electronically on the SRJC Handshake Job board:
- Employers on Handshake Job Board
- Students will view and apply for positions online
- Employers will interview each applicant for appropriate fit
- Employers are not required to hire all interested students
- Can the internship be unpaid?
We encourage employers to pay students for internships for two reasons.
- Students, especially students from diverse backgrounds, support themselves through college and need to work.
- Employers have a much stricter standard for meeting the Federal Labor Standards Act guidelines than for a part-time job. Here is the link for the FLSA form if you choose to implement an unpaid intern.
- If the student intern is earning academic credit, how is the employer involved?
- Active involvement in reviewing specific learning goals that will guide the students’ learning
- One meeting with the SRJC instructor, student and employer/supervisor (end of semester)
- Evaluation of the student’s learning goals and verification of hours worked
- Discussion of performance with the intern and instructor
- Students who are enrolled in the course, and have an unpaid internship (following FLSA Guidelines), are covered for Workers Compensation through SRJC.
- Who do I contact for more information?
Amy Merkel
Work Experience Education, Faculty | Internship Coordinator