April Marvin, Staff Writer
Photo//https://umdearborn.edu/life-inside-internship
Internships can be an integral part of the college journey. From gaining firsthand experience to applying knowledge learned in the classroom, internships help toward the future.
For students at UM-Dearborn, there are many options for internships. You may need one to graduate for your major. You may already work in a place that can offer you credit for an internship. You may want to gain experience in a field before deciding to make a career out of it.
Even if you do not need an internship to graduate, they build your network, bolster your resume, help you with teamwork, and help you in learning what you want to do with your future…or what you do not want to do. Whatever the situation, an internship can be a memorable and valuable experience.
UM-Dearborn’s College of Arts, Sciences, and Letters (CASL) has a robust internship program run by Coordinators Liz Clark and Patti Martin.
All CASL majors are welcome to do an internship with specific programs students can apply to. Internship programs in CASL range from Criminology and Criminal Justice, Economics, Environmental Studies, Humanities/History, the Ottawa Political Internship, Politics Policy and Law, Psychology, and Urban/Regional studies.
The process can seem intimidating, but the CASL Internship Center helps to guide students through the process.
“If you need help, that’s what the CASL Internship Center is here for,” says Clark. From submitting your resume, to placement, and following up with students along the way, they are open to support students.
Liz Clark from the CASL internship office visiting students of PRSSA to talk about internships. Photo//PRSSA.
Across the board, the number one stressor students say about internships is that they are nervous to find one and even more to start. Speaking to Clark, she encourages students to fight the fear and think ahead: “Don't be intimidated, and don't wait until the last minute. Talk with us ahead of time.”
According to Clark, being proactive is one of the biggest favors you can do yourself when thinking about an internship. “The best way to find what works for you is to give yourself plenty of time to search for internships you might want. Even if you aren't ready to apply, researching key projects and opportunities could be helpful in the future,” says Clark.
So, when is the best time to do an internship in your college time? “When the time is right for YOU!” says Clark. “[Although there are programs that recommend junior or senior standing]...in CASL you can always apply or meet with us early, and then do an internship later.” The CASL internship office wants internships to be beneficial to students above all else.
Clark’s excitement and passion for the program is palpable. “Internships are SO impactful, they help with skills, building confidence, networking, and learning about yourself,” she says. “We have had some exciting internships over the years, from the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. to the Detroit Tigers, students in Governor Whitmer’s office and at TV stations!”
Additionally, there are many longtime partnerships the CASL Internship Office has with placement sites that keep coming to UM-D in search of interns. It is really a win-win for students.
If you want to learn more about CASL internships or are interested in getting the process started, the best thing to do is make an appointment with the CASL Internship Center, or fill out the CASL Internship Application
The CASL Internship Office, located in 2040 CB. Photo//April Marvin
Want to hear directly from the interns, click here to read about their experiences!
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