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Career Center

Internship Tips

 

Receiving academic credit for your internship at Truman is easy, but each major does things a little differently.  Below is a general list to get you started.

Read about Truman Students' internships here.

Academic Credit

  • Obtain the Internship Education Packet from VPAA office.

  • Visit with your major's internship coordinator.

  • Apply for University and major credit (when applicable).

  • Register for the internships hours.

  • Complete all required  paperwork including but not limited to Internship Education  Packet, journals and reflections.

Cocurricular Credit

If you did not receive academic credit for your internship you can have it recognized on your Cocurricular Record.  Follow the directions on the link. 

What Should You Expect at Your Internship?

  • Expect administrative work... which provides a better understanding of all facets of the company and improves your skill set.

  • Expect to truly affect the company... because your work is
    important and may be published in a company newsletter or even reviewed by clients.

  • Expect to be proactive... because successful interns seek out beneficial experiences.

  • Expect to find a mentor... who will help you with the ins and outs of your position and the company.

  • Expect to "get out what you put in"... because your experimental learning is in your hands.

 

Internship Tips for Young Professionals

  • Be professional by being attentive, mature, punctual, adaptive and well dressed.

  • Take initiative by asking for or creating new projects.

  • Keep an internship journal to later assist you in reflection papers, evaluation forms, your résumé and a professional portfolio.

  • Don't forget the paperwork for internship credit major requirements and more.

  • Don't resent the grunt work because all small tasks affect the company and you have to start somewhere.

  • Ask to attend special meetings or events to increase professional experience.

  • Practice professional communication by learning how information is disseminated and decisions are made.

  • Don't be afraid to talk you should be respectful of others' time, but not intimidated to speak up.

  • Network by asking for advice and conducting informational interviews.

  • Learn all that you can by speaking with co-workers and observing daily operations.

Following-Up Your Internship

  • Write a thank you not to your supervisor to build professional rapport for future employment or a reference.

  • Keep in touch with previous co-workers who are incredible sources of knowledge and would be great professional contacts.

  • Reflect on your experience by reviewing your leadership assignments and evaluations consider participating in the Career Center's Internship Reflections.

  • Update your résumé to best reflect your duties and transferable skills.

  • Practice interviewing by integrating information and situations from your internship into your responses.