Monica Hulshizer, May 2000 Grad. An internship is the answer. Internships provide professional experiences as a part of advanced undergraduate study. The intern is under the supervision of at least one practicing professional. Depending on where you intern, some may offer pay, but many do not.
Internships can take the form of an academic internship, or non-academic internship.
Usually completed in the junior or senior year, an academic internship typically is more rigorous and provides academic credit towards your degree program. Non-academic internships can be completed at any time provided you meet the requirements set forth by the company or organization offering an internship program of interest. Internship programs are a win-win opportunity for the student and the employer. Through these programs, employers can test, groom and recruit full-time canidates. More and more students are taking advantage of these opportunities to maintain a competive edge in the job market.