“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.”
~ As defined by NACE the National Association of Colleges and Employers
Many students recall their internship(s) as a defining collegiate experience. An Internship provides students with external community engagements to coalesce years of academic rigor into applied experiential learning opportunities.
The challenges, hands-on training and success achieved through an internship provide the experience and focus for our students post-graduate success. Internships are an intrinsic element of our Integrated Clusters Model and fundamental to the Plymouth State signature experience.
Plymouth State University students pursue internships for all of the following reasons:
- to develop and enhance their knowledge and skills
- clarify their occupational preferences
- grow personally and professionally
- acquire valuable networking contacts and connections
- add “real world” experience to their resume
- gain letters of recommendation from their internship supervisors
- increase employment opportunities following graduation
Employer Site Approval:
All off campus partner sites and projects must be approved prior to student engagement. If the desired partner or project is not already approved and sanctioned by Plymouth State University, the student must get approval by the sponsoring on campus office to engage in the proposed project/work. The appropriate university office must contact the organization at least one week prior to the anticipated start date to complete the approval process. The following criteria must be met and documented for approval.
Approval Criteria:
1. The partnering organization and project must support the Plymouth State University mission and sanctioned university curriculum.
2. The partnering organization must provide a safe working environment for students.
3. The partnering organization must recognize student work as an extension of university education and experience.
4. The partnering organization must abide by all State of NH Department of Labor laws
5. Unpaid Internships must meet Federal Requirements