College of Science

Gaining Real-World Experience: Frequently Asked Questions

What is an internship?

An internship provides meaningful, career-related work that extends a student's learning beyond the classroom. It may be paid or unpaid, for academic credit or not. Usually, the internship is a one-time experience during the summer, but some extend for six months to a year. The setting may be a university, public/for profit business, a government office, or a non-profit organization. It should involve intentional learning with specific goals and objectives that support the student's academic and career interests. Objectives and practices vary from program to program. Some involve simply observing the field, while others are a "capstone" experience permitting students to apply the principles and theory from the classroom to real-life projects.

What other things can I do to gain experience?

Internships and research are wonderful ways to gain professional experience; however, there are many other methods for gaining skills and knowledge relevant to future career paths.  Consider some of the following.  Make an appointment with a career counselor in Math 231 (494-1771) to discuss how these might fit for you.  

COOPERATIVE EDUCATION

There are limited opportunities for Cooperative Education in the College of Science.  Check with the departmental contact to discuss what Co-op opportunities exist in your department.  Internships provide a comparable professional experience, fit well with the science curriculum, and are very available.  

EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES

SERVICE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

STUDY ABROAD

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

WORK EXPERIENCE