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Internship Guidelines for Site Supervisors

Internship and co-operative education experiences have been proven to be viable tools in assisting the student to transition from the academic culture into the career of their choosing.  However, the companies and organizations that have qualified as internship/co-operative education sites find that they too benefit from this relationship.  In order for this to occur, it requires the wise utilization of the student's time, skills and academic background.  The following guidelines are foundational for a successful relationship:

  • PRODUCTIVITY - Though periods do occur when the workload is minimal, every effort should be made to keep the student occupied with sufficient, productive assignments.  Student assignments should mirror those normally given to new, inexperienced, entry-level professionals, and clerical tasks should be limited to 20% or less of the overall responsibilities.

  • TIME COMMITMENT - Interns typically work part-time during the academic year, but may work full-time during the summer months. On average, interns work from 8-20 hours per week.

  • RESPONSIBILITY - A gradual increase in the level of responsibility in intern assignments will serve to keep the student motivated and challenged throughout the placement period. 

  • RELEVANCE - Since the Internship/Co-operative program is intended as an educational endeavor, each assignment should bear relevance to the student's major and the development of career goals. 

  • ACCOMPLISHMENT - Student interns should be made to feel that they have accomplished some piece of work or project, which has contributed to the departmental or organizational objectives.

  • PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT - Attention should be given to help the student develop a sense of professionalism.  Assignments and supervisor meetings with the student might relate to what is expected of new applicants/entrants and typical career paths in your particular field.

  • SUPERVISION AND EVALUATION - A Supervisor should plan regular one-on-one sessions with the intern in order to provide the student with valuable feedback and to discuss the student's observations and feelings about the internship/co-operative experience.  Upon completion of your student intern's experience, fill out the evaluation form and return to the Job Development and Career Services Center.

  • LOOKING AHEAD - Should a student become a permanent employee in the future, the investment made by the Supervisor during an internship/co-operative experience can provide significant payoffs such as, reduced costs of orientation/training, quicker assimilation as a team member of the company/organization and a productive employee in a shorter span of time.

 Please contact Liz Jorden, Assistant Director of Career Services/Internship Coordinator via phone at 951-343-4386 or via email at ljorden@calbaptist.edu.