Since the Career Development Center uses the words internship and co-op interchangeably, this section does not recognize any difference between the two. The difference between unpaid internships and work experiences is quite obvious, but the line becomes blurred when the experience is paid. For most students, internships provide an experience that is more closely related to their career goals rather than a job that pays the bills. Another component that is different is learning. In most work experiences, there may be an opportunity for professional development and training but little chance for personal development and growth.
Internships have intentional learning goals and reflection components.
Since learning is such a priority, supervision is another key component of internships. Internships are more closely supervised at the work site and a faculty member may supervise, as well. You may also receive academic credit for internships, since there is a learning component. The only real similarity between unpaid internships and community service is that they are both unpaid experiences. Internships are more closely related to your career goals rather than giving something back to the community.