Internship Program OVERVIEW
Internship is a key component of carrying out the vision of the University: to be characterized by a commitment to equip students to discover and answer God’s call in their lives.
Every major program of study has a field experience component. Internships enhance students’ readiness for the transition from college to career, as well as give them an advantage in the graduate admissions process, in the competition for entry-level positions, and in the achievement of career satisfaction.
Experiential LEARNING
Internship is a key component of carrying out the vision of the University: to be characterized by a commitment to equip students to discover and answer God’s call in their lives.
Every major program of study has a field experience component. Internships enhance students’ readiness for the transition from college to career, as well as give them an advantage in the graduate admissions process, in the competition for entry-level positions, and in the achievement of career satisfaction.
What is INTERNSHIP?
National Association of Colleges & Employers (NACE) recommends the following definition:
“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.”
Meaningful
INTERNSHIPS
NACE suggests the following criteria be met in order for an experience to qualify as an internship:
- The experience must be an extension of the classroom: a learning experience that provides for applying the knowledge gained in the classroom. It must not be simply to advance the operations of the employer or be the work that a regular employee would routinely perform.
- The skills or knowledge learned must be transferable to other employment settings.
- The experience has a defined beginning and end, and a job description with desired qualifications.
- There are clearly defined learning objectives/goals related to the professional goals of the student’s academic coursework.
- There is supervision by a professional with expertise and educational and/or professional background in the field of the experience.
- There is routine feedback by the experienced supervisor.
There are resources, equipment, and facilities provided by the host employer that support learning objectives/goals.
Internship GUIDELINES
Internship sites, whether on-campus or off-campus, must go through an approval process prior to accepting a student as an intern. Approval is based on the following criteria:
- The site is able to abide by the internship guidelines set by the University.
- The site has the ability to train and supervise undergraduate interns.
- The site is able to provide tasks and projects that align with students’ learning objectives and program of study.
- The site is able to accommodate the minimum number of clock hours necessary for the completion of the credit requirements within students’ disciplines.
- The designated site supervisors possess qualifications and experience in the area over which they are supervising.
The specific academic policies that govern internship are outlined in the current academic catalog.
Career Readiness
COMPETENCIES
Internship learning objectives are based on the NACE Career Readiness Competencies:
- Critical Thinking/ Problem Solving
- Oral/Written Communication
- Teamwork/Collaboration
- Digital Technology
- Leadership
- Professionalism/Work Ethic
- Global/Cultural Fluency
RECENT INTERNSHIPS
Maddii Desemone
Green Hill Humane Society
Bushnell University biology major Maddii Desemone gained hands-on experience in animal behavior, shelter work, and community outreach through her internship at Green Hill Humane Society. Her journey highlights the impact of real-world learning in shaping her career goals in animal conservation.
To learn more about Maddii’s story, visit Internship Insights: Maddii Desemone.
Ariel Van Cleave
Every Child Lane County
Bushnell University forensic psychology major Ariel Van Cleave gained hands-on experience in social services, mental health support, and foster care through her internship at Every Child Lane County. Her journey highlights the impact of real-world learning in shaping her career goals in child welfare and the non-profit sector.
To learn more about Ariel’s story, visit Internship Insights: Ariel Van Cleave.
Aaron von Bruck
Pleasant Hill High School
Bushnell University kinesiology major Aaron von Bruck gained hands-on experience in event preparation, marketing, and community engagement through his internship with the athletic department at Pleasant Hill High School. His journey highlights the impact of real-world learning in shaping his career goals of owning a gym and mentoring others.
To learn more about Aaron’s story, visit Internship Insights: Aaron von Bruck.
Questions?
Whitney Shoun, M.S.