Internships were rated by employers as one of the most effective recruiting methods for hiring new college graduates, according to the 2008 Experiential Education Survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). Whether you are beginning an internship program or seeking to hire interns for your current program, we are happy to help you find qualified candidates at The University of South Florida St. Petersburg.

An internship is an opportunity to enhance classroom learning through practical experience. Internships may be full-time or part-time, depending on the employer's needs. Most positions are for one semester, though some are designed for longer periods. Internships can be found in corporate and private businesses, government agencies and nonprofit organizations. All internships should have the common goal of providing students supervision and a chance to learn while contributing.

Interns can assist with special events and/or short-term projects. 

• Interns may offer new ideas and innovative approaches.  
• Interns are typically self-motivated. They're eager to get experience!      
• Mentoring an intern provides your staff member an opportunity to develop supervisory skills.
• An intern can be evaluated and trained for possible future employment.
• Providing internships can be a cost-effective solution for situations not requiring long-term employment. 
• An employer's visibility on campus is increased when promoting internships.

Employers are encouraged to compensate interns through hourly wages, stipends and/or assistance with lodging expenses. Compensation varies from industry to industry. According to the U.S. Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers do not have to pay interns who qualify as trainees. The U.S. Department of Labor has outlined six criteria for determining trainee status:

• Interns work under close supervision and do not displace regular employees.   
• Interns are not guaranteed a job at the end of the internship.
• Interns understand they are not entitled to wages during the internship.
• Training takes precedent over any benefits employers may receive.
• Interns' training must primarily benefit them, not the organization.  
• Interns must obtain hands-on experience similar to that in a vocational setting.

Intern employers are expected to provide work experiences that are both challenging and educational. Interns should have a supervisor or mentor committed to the professional development of others. A few specific expectations are:       

• Assign projects that relate to the intern's area of study.
• Provide a clear description of responsibilities.
• Provide sufficient and appropriate training.
• Provide an orientation to the company and its culture.
• Provide opportunities for interns to get involved with company activities.           
• Offer feedback regularly.

• Employers Guide: How to Create a Successful Internship - July 2009 Workshop
• National Association of Colleges and Employers
• Association for Experiential Education
• Cooperative Education & Internship Association

For additional assistance