How to prepare for success using internships and co-ops

CAREER PLANNING & JOB SEARCH GUIDE

Your college life has probably seemed like an endless stream of preparation activities: You examined your options before you chose a school, you gave careful consideration to the major you declared, and studied in preparation for an endless stream of papers and exams. And as graduation nears, there is another type of preparation that must take place: preparing to begin your career. One of the best ways to prepare for this milestone and to be sure you're making the right career decision is through internships and co-ops.

Internships and co-ops are opportunities that allow students to apply classroom education to practical situations. While gaining this experience, you can also get a sneak preview of what your future may be like in your chosen field, and do some company research too.

There are two types of internship assignments: academic and non-academic. Your school is a major player in academic internships, as they often maintain relationships with companies that welcome interns and offer students good practical training. Your school can also help you select the best internships for you, based on how relevant the training will be to your studies, and help you arrange a schedule that is balanced with your class load and study schedule. The school will also determine whether academic credit will be awarded, based on the number of hours you work, your assigned duties, and/or your performance.

Non-academic internships are usually sought by the student, and arranged between you and the employer. Look for gaining experience only if you arrange this type of internship, as they normally offer little to no pay, or academic credit. However, this is an excellent option if you cannot arrange an internship through your school. Non-academic internships are also a great option if you are hoping to work for a particular company after graduation.

Cooperative education combines your class load with paid employment. Many employers hire students from their co-op programs immediately after graduation. These programs also offer you a chance to gain insight into your field, and they allow you to measure your level of on-thejob performance.

Co-op assignments can be arranged around your school schedule, so that you may complete both the assignment and your studies within a specific time frame. Options include:

* Alternating a semester of fulltime work with a semester of full-time study

* Attend classes full-time while working part-time

* Work full-time while attending classes part-time

Be sure to plan your schedule carefully, keeping in mind that classroom time replaced by work hours may extend your time in school. Whether you choose an internship or co-op program, each offer benefits that you can use not only to land the job you want, but also to develop yourself as a professional.

As she studied for a degree in Surgical Technology, Arkesha Davis eagerly anticipated her internship assignments, knowing nothing would prepare her for a job better than the opportunity to bring textbook theory to life in an operating room.

"It allowed me hands-on experience in a field that I would be working in. It provided me with in-depth knowledge of what to expect once I entered that profession. I believe that internships are great opportunities for those who are serious about obtaining and growing in a professional career." Arkesha was able to identify what her strengths were, and what areas she needed to work on. This is one of the greatest advantages that interns have as they compete for positions; they have become aware of the areas they excel in, and can identify those strengths on their resumes, and in job interviews. This is what sets them apart from the competition.

When a company hires you as an intern, they will look for not only your understanding of classroom theory, but your all around performance as an employee. Here are some of the characteristics employers hope to observe in their interns:

* Understanding--How well can you convert theory into practical skill?

* Communications-How well do you interact with co-workers and clients?

* Professionalism-Do you arrive on time? Complete assigned tasks?

* Drive-Are you asking questions? Asking to help on other projects?

As they observe these traits and others, employers will be making a determination of whether to invite you back for another internship assignment, or for permanent employment. You will probably be wondering what they think of your performance. Academic internships and co-ops normally offer periodic evaluations, by either the employer, the internship coordinator at your school, or both. While you are being evaluated, use this time to perform an evaluation of your own. Remember, an internship is also a chance to get a sneak peek into your field and the company, to be sure you are making the right choices for yourself.

Ask yourself some questions about the company and your daily working experiences. Is this the kind of atmosphere you want to work in? Do they welcome ideas and creative input? What would your typical schedule be? Do you follow many routines, or do things change from day to day?