All students are encouraged to have at least one internship prior to graduation. Here’s why: Employers often cite having had an internship as the #1 qualification they consider when deciding whether to interview or hire a candidate.

Characteristics | Types | Benefits | Preparation | Search

Characteristics of an Internship

Internships can be found in public, private, non-profit and government organizations. An internship may be paid or unpaid. It may be pursued for academic credit if your faculty internship coordinators approves it. They may be completed during the Fall, Spring (16-18 weeks) or Summer (12-14 weeks) semesters. 

An internship is distinguished from other work experiences in the following ways:

  • Relates to your program of study with clearly defined learning objectives
  • Develops and provides opportunities for you to practice skills by applying academic solutions to real work problems
  • Informs your career pursuits with actual experiences

Types of Internships

Internships may be undertaken for credit or not for credit. You are encouraged to talk with your faculty mentor, your major’s faculty internship coordinator or with a staff member in Career Services to determine if the experience is, in fact, an internship (and not simply a part-time job) and whether it qualifies for academic credit. 

Academic Credit Internships

Each major has its own requirements for a for-credit internship. Your faculty internship coordinator will discuss with you what you must do to earn academic credit for an internship. 

Visit the academic internship page to find your faculty internship coordinators.

Not-for-credit Internships

If you would like to do an internship without academic credit, you may contact Career Services and use all available resources. A staff member will help you find an internship that will complement your academic and career goals.

Benefits of an internship

Internships are vital in helping students obtain full-time opportunities after graduating. Below are additional benefits gained from an internship experience. 

  • Gain relevant work experience prior to graduation.
  • Increase your understanding of classroom theory through actual work experience.
  • Explore career goals and options.
  • Integrate real-world experience into classroom learning.
  • Enhance your marketability to employers upon graduation.
  • Sharpen your communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Gain an understanding of professional cultures and expectations.
  • Evaluate and improve your strengths and weaknesses.

Prepare for an Internship

Prior to applying for an internship, you are encouraged to engage in professional development, and Career Services has a variety of resources to support this effort. Some of the actions that you should take to ensure you are prepared for your internship search are listed below:

  • Prepare a targeted resume and compelling cover letter.
  • Practice your interview skills using Big Interview.
  • Craft your LinkedIn page.
  • Ensure your social media presence reflects your professional best.
  • Dress for success.
  • Participate in Career Services-sponsored programs/events with potential internship employers.
  • Attend Career Services-sponsored career-related workshops.
  • Attend GGC-sponsored career fairs.
  • Register in ClawLink, powered by Handshake to see current internship opportunities.
  • Follow Career Services on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram to stay informed.

Find an Internship

Career Services supports your ability to engage in an internship by developing strong relationships with employers in the community as well as maintaining a variety of resources.

ClawLink, powered by Handshake

Internship sponsors who want to hire GGC students post their opportunities on ClawLink, powered by Handshake. Visit ClawLink, powered by Handshake to find the current available internships. 

Follow Career Services on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to stay informed.