Office of Academic Internships

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What is an academic internship?

• It is an on-the-job learning experience that connects classroom preparation with the professional world of work

• An internship provides the student intern with paraprofessional work experience in a particular work environment connected with the student’s course of study

• Student interns work under the supervision of practicing professionals, under the advisement of ULM faculty/staff, in pursuit of specific learning objectives

• Academic internships may or may not involve academic credit and/or monetary compensation

• Academic internships may occur during an academic semester or during a break between semesters

What are some of the advantages for students?

• Students can see how what they learn in classes applies to real-world employment, often leading to improved academic performance

• Students can gain a competitive employment advantage by acquiring relevant work experience that is attractive to employers

• Students can explore their interests and career options, “trying out” one or more career paths while still in school

• Students can acquire relevant work skills and positive work habits

• Students can expand their range of future employment contacts

• Students can add a valuable line item to their resumes.

What are the advantages for employers?

• Employers expand their range of potential employees with relevant skills

• Employers help build up the area’s skilled work force

• Employers support the University of Louisiana Monroe, thus strengthening the economic and educational base of Northeast Louisiana