What exactly is an internship? (And do I want one?) Getting Started

The value of a solid internship offers many benefits: work experience, on-the-job training, networking, professional contacts, and maybe even a job offer! Are you ready to get started with an internship?

Take this quiz to be sure

- Yes – I have completed a minimum of 12 hours in my program of study, or if a Bachelor of Applied Science student, 18 hours of upper-level coursework.
- Yes – I have a minimum GPA of 2.5, or 3.0 if a Bachelor of Applied Science student.
- Yes – I am a student “in good standing” with Polk State College and have acquired program director approval to pursue an internship.
- Yes – I have adequate time and availability in my schedule to do an internship (a minimum of 10 hours within Monday-Friday, 8:00-5:00 time frame).
- Yes – I have completed any academic prerequisites specific to my program of study.
- Yes – I will be registered for course credit during the term during which I complete the internship experience.
- Yes – I am initiating the work and placement for an internship at least by mid-term of the term before the desired internship term.

If you answered YES to all the above, you might be ready to get started! The Polk State internship director will assist you with identifying and being selected for an internship and will be your Polk State liaison while you are on the internship. Read on to know how to get started!

Your first steps are

- Review the Internship Handbook to ensure you are ready for an internship.
- Enroll in the appropriate internship course within your program of study. Make sure you have discussed this with your program director.

Note: There may be additional materials and procedures required for your course.

- Develop a resume – please use recommendations found on the resume page on this site to guide you with resume writing. Contact the internship director for additional assistance.
- Enroll at http://joinhandshake.com/ using your MyPolk email address to access information that will assist you along your career path.
- Submit your resume to the Internship Director& Experiential Learning, Yvonne Velez at yvelez@lyhymh.net. Make an appointment with the internship director to discuss your interests and career plans.

Still, thinking about it? Speak with your academic advisor, program director, or career services if you need assistance. There are also links on this site that provide food for thought on how career-based experiences can help you advance your career plans.