Our internship program provides a transformative experience that bridges academic learning and professional development. Through structured reflection, guided mentorship, and real-world projects, interns gain the skills and confidence to launch successful careers.
Who Should Apply?
To get academic credit for an internship, you need to meet th following requirements:
You are a junior or senior.
Your GPA is 2.5 or higher.
Your in-major GPA is 3.0 or higher

Finding the Right Internship for You

We offer several paths to secure an internship that aligns with your career goals and interests. Whether you're seeking a paid opportunity, looking to connect with one of our established business partners, or interested in exploring a new organization, we're here to support you throughout the process.

1. Paid Internships through Handshake

Our university's online career platform, Handshake, is a great resource for finding paid internships. You can search and apply directly through the platform, streamlining your internship hunt. If you secure a paid internship through Handshake, simply inform our program, and we will work with you to set up the necessary academic credit.

2 Opportunities with Established Business Partners

Over the years, our program has cultivated relationships with a network of business partners who frequently offer internship opportunities, although these positions are typically unpaid. If you're interested in exploring these opportunities, schedule a meeting with our internship coordinator to discuss your interests and next steps. They will help you identify potential matches and guide you through the application process.

3. Exploring New Internship Opportunities

If you have your eye on an organization that's not currently on our list of business partners, don't hesitate to let us know. We are always eager to expand our network and create new opportunities for our students. Share the details of the potential internship with our program, and we'll work with you to reach out to the organization and establish a new partnership.
ENG 498: District C Internship Incubator
For students seeking a unique and immersive internship experience, we highly recommend enrolling in ENG 498: District C Internship Incubator. In this innovative class, you'll participate in two "teamships"—collaborative projects where groups of students use design thinking principles to tackle real-world challenges posed by our business partners.
Teamships offer a dynamic and engaging alternative to traditional internships, allowing you to develop highly sought-after skills such as:
Collaborating effectively with diverse teams
Applying creative problem-solving techniques
Communicating ideas persuasively
Managing complex projects from ideation to implementation
Both teamships completed through the District C Internship Incubator count towards your internship requirements, providing a structured yet flexible path to gain valuable professional experience.

How It Works

Our internship program is structured to provide you with the guidance, support, and resources you need to excel in your role and lay the foundation for your future career. By combining hands-on experience with dedicated mentorship and professional development activities, we aim to empower you to translate your academic knowledge into workplace success.
Here's what you can expect when you join our program:
Time Commitment: As an intern, you will dedicate approximately 8-10 hours per week to your internship, totaling 126 hours over the course of the semester. This allows you to meaningfully engage with your projects and team while balancing your academic commitments.
Mentorship and Guidance: You will have the support of both a faculty advisor and an internship mentor. You'll meet with your faculty advisor once a month to discuss your progress, reflect on your learning, and ensure your internship aligns with your academic goals. Additionally, you'll have weekly meetings with your internship mentor, who will provide guidance, feedback, and industry insights to help you navigate your role and grow professionally.
Professional Development Activities: Throughout the semester, you will participate in weekly activities designed to enhance your professional skills and prepare you for future success. These activities focus on areas such as refining your online presence, networking effectively, communicating in the workplace, and showcasing your achievements.
Culminating Portfolio: A key requirement for passing the internship class is the creation of a professional portfolio. This portfolio will showcase your internship projects, highlight your growth and achievements, and serve as a valuable tool for future job searches.
Evaluation and Feedback: To ensure a meaningful and successful internship experience, we value open communication and feedback. At the end of your internship, you will have the opportunity to evaluate your experience, sharing your insights, successes, and areas for improvement. Your internship mentor will also provide an evaluation of your performance, offering constructive feedback to support your ongoing professional development.

Take the Next Step

No matter which path you choose, our program is committed to helping you find an internship that challenges you, expands your skills, and sets you up for future career success. Reach out to our internship coordinator to discuss your options and take the first step towards your ideal internship experience.
Apply now to turn your internship into a catalyst for your professional success. The future is yours to create.