What are internships?
An internship provides on-the-job training in a skilled or professional level work environment related to a student’s area of study.
How will an internship benefit me?
- Learn professional skills in preparation for your chosen career.
- Acquire hands-on experience in a structured program and develop career contacts.
- Earn 1 – 4 units of academic credit for paid or unpaid positions.
- Get a glimpse into your chosen career field.
- Receive career guidance in matching your skills to appropriate positions.
- Obtain guidance in managing your career.
INTERNSHIPS ELIGIBILITY AND PARTICIPATION:
- Be at least a second year student
- Be in good academic standing (2.5 GPA and above)
- Have a declared major and some career goals
- Have completed at least two classes related to your major
- Agree to enroll in a Work Experience class
- Be goal oriented, motivated to learn and have good time management skills
- Be at an English 101 writing level or higher (ESL 320 or higher)
How do I apply for an internship?
- If you are eligible and ready to participate, register in the district job and internship database: the Los Rios Internships & Career Services – LINCS to HIRE Education System
- Identify between one-four internships in which you are interested and for which you qualify.
- Then contact one of the Internship staff - Poonam at 558-2383 or May at 558-2069 - for the next steps.
Are there deadlines to apply for an internship?
In order to secure an internship before your work experience course starts, we request you apply for an internship at least three weeks prior to the start of a semester or summer term.
Can I develop my own internship?
Yes, as long as you have a cooperating supervisor willing to provide a learning experience for you.
Are internship units transferable?
Yes, California State University (CSU) may accept eight units of Work Experience 498 classes as electives when the student’s work/internship is related to their major.
Can I complete more than one internship in a semester?
Yes, you can combine only two internships, but they both must relate to your major. You will be required to verify all employment and create learning objectives for both.
What happens if I change internships mid-semester?
Depending on the circumstances, we will try to work out any situation you come up against. This should be discussed with your Work Experience instructor immediately.
Is placement guaranteed?
No. Your placement depends on how well you interview, the skills and knowledge you can bring to an employer, and whether they select you for the position.
How are internship hours tabulated?
- Units earned are determined by the amount of hours worked, success with completing the specific & measurable Learning Objectives program forms and classroom assignments.
- Maximum of 3-4 units per semester may be earned based on the following formulas for fall, spring, and summer sessions:
Paid: 75 hours = 1 unit of credit
Unpaid: 60 hours = 1 unit of credit
If you have decided on a major and are ready for on-the-job training, the Internship Program (Intern/Co-op) is for you. An internship provides on-the-job training in a skilled or professional level work environment related to a student’s area of study. Through an extensive network of local employers, opportunities are available to you in your chosen field.
Through a Work Experience class, an instructor is assigned to visit you on the job, review your goals and objectives, and serve as a resource throughout the semester. You will earn a letter grade based on a formal evaluation by the employer, the instructor, and self-evaluation.
As an intern, you:
- Enroll in a WEXP course and earn academic credit (1 – 4 units) for paid or volunteer positions
- Learn about your chosen career
- Acquire hands-on job experience in a carefully-structured and individualized program
- Experience current practices in your chosen field
- Receive career guidance in matching your skills to appropriate career positions
Obtain professional guidance in interviewing techniques, job search, and resume development
