What is an Internship?

Internships come in various forms, each providing a unique experience tailored to your goals. They can be part-time or full-time, single or repeated, paid or unpaid. Regardless of the details, internships are structured experiences that provide the opportunity for you to translate classroom learning into hands-on practice. By stepping into a professional setting, you’ll have the chance to apply what you’ve learned in your courses to real challenges, gaining skills and a deeper understanding of your chosen industry. Typically, internships are supervised both by a designated employee within the organization and a faculty or staff member, ensuring you receive guidance and support throughout the process.

Duration and Academic Credit

The duration of an internship varies, though they often align with the academic semester. You might find part-time options that allow you to balance work and classes or full-time engagements that immerse you in the industry. If you’re wondering whether you can earn academic credit for your internship, the answer is usually yes. Many academic departments offer credit-bearing internships, and you can consult your academic advisor to explore the options available within your department. In cases where your department doesn’t provide internship credit, you can consider registering for courses like the Career Services Internship Program (CSIP) to formalize your experience. While you can arrange a non-credit internship, we encourage you to seek positions that include a learning agreement. The learning agreement should outline: what skills and knowledge will be gained, projects to be completed during the internship, the duration of the internship, identification of a professional supervisor and/or mentor, and clear expectations about compensation and hours.

Finding Your Perfect Internship

The search for the ideal internship starts with the right resources. Handshake is your go-to platform, offering access to over 5000 employers eager to hire students from the University of Utah. Handshake streamlines the application process and connects you with employers seeking your skills and talents. Beyond Handshake, Crimson Projects focuses on data analytics, software development, project management, and data research opportunities. If you’re interested in government and politics, the Hinckley Institute provides a gateway to these sectors. Remember, your career coach is a valuable ally in your search. They can offer tailored advice, help you refine your resume, and guide you toward opportunities aligned with your goals.

Beyond Internships

Internships aren’t the only experiential learning opportunities that can enhance your resume. Class projects, research initiatives, volunteer work, and leadership roles within clubs and organizations are all worth showcasing. These experiences demonstrate your versatility, initiative, and ability to collaborate effectively – qualities that employers value.

Conclusion

Internships are your passport to the professional world, offering a chance to transform academic knowledge into real-world expertise. Whether paid or unpaid, for credit or not, each internship experience is a powerful step toward a successful career. The skills you gain, the networks you build, and the challenges you overcome will shape your future. Embrace internships and experiential learning as a valuable part of your college experience and watch your potential unfold.