Connecting Academics & the Workplace
Internships at Drew University are designed as Immersive Experiences that provide students with meaningful learning beyond the classroom. Whether on- or off-campus, for credit or not, and paid or unpaid, these experiences support career development, networking, and the growth of transferable skills.
Essential elements of Immersive Experiences include preparation and training, mentoring throughout the experience, and culminating reflection. The credit-bearing INTC-200 companion course supports these elements by guiding reflection and professional development throughout the internship. The course is offered for 0–4 credits each term.
Definition of an Internship
“An internship is a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering for career paths, and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent.”
Critical Internship Components
- Be an extension of the student’s classroom learning experience that allows a student to apply their knowledge.
- Skills or knowledge gained through an internship must be transferable to another setting.
- The position has a defined beginning and end, as well as a job description indicating expected duties as well as any relevant qualifications.
- There are clearly defined learning goals relevant to the student’s professional goals and academic coursework.
- The intern is supervised by a professional with a background and expertise in the field of the internship.
- The intern is given routine feedback by the supervisor of the experience.
- There are resources, equipment, and facilities provided by the employer that facilitate the student’s learning goals.