Follow-up surveys of graduates who have served as interns have found internships frequently mentioned as an effective means of enriching the educational experience. When working with employers regarding internship opportunities strive for work assignments that are educational and meaningful. The intern's duties should involve management training or research projects, ideally of a nature similar to duties that would be assigned to a college graduate in a training program. The student benefits most by working closely with experienced decision makers. An intern's time at the work site should not be devoted to errands or clerical tasks.
Students are able to participate in internships fall, spring, and summer.
Whereas most students are limited for fall and spring semesters in the Central Illinois area, during the summer students are able to participate in programs nationwide or abroad. Students are ordinarily compensated for their employment. The student is required to complete a minimum of 135 hours over the term, whether fall, spring, or summer. Fall and spring semesters cover a 15 week timetable and summer offers 10 weeks student availability. The completion of the 135 hours, a written evaluation by the supervisor and a paper submitted by the student constitute the components of the course requirements.