The University of Mississippi
School of Business Administration
Employer and Student Guide
to Internships
Welcome from the Office of Undergraduate
Career Preparation
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation seeks to complement the academic
mission of the University of Mississippi School of Business Administration by
preparing our students for career and internship opportunities.
We offer a variety of services including:
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Resume/Cover Letter Review
Networking Events
Career Advising/Planning
Interview Tips
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Job Search Strategies
Business Communications
Strengths Assessment
Internship Coordination
Please feel free to reach out to our Career Preparation team:
Ms. Meg (Martha) Barnes, Director of Undergraduate Career
Preparation
Holman G6 (1st Floor)
(662) 915-2406
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marthabarnes
Mr. Wesley F. Dickens, Coordinator of Career Preparation and
Internships
Holman G7 (1st Floor)
(662) 915-6546
[email protected]
https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesleydickens
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Table of Contents
Employer Guide to Structuring a Meaningful Internship Experience
What is the best experiential option for your organization?................................................5
A closer look at a Volunteer…………………………………………………………................................6
A closer look at an Intern……………………………………………………………………………………6
How do employers benefit from an Internship Program?.....................................................6
Writing an Internship Posting Description…………………………………………………………..7
Posting your internship through Ole Miss……………………………………………………………9
The Role of the Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation……………………………….10
Making an Internship Offer………………………………………………………………………………..10
How do student interns benefit from an Internship Program?..........................................11
Learning Goals…………………………………………………………………………………………………..11
Providing an Intern Orientation to your Organization…………………………………………13
Designing your Internship Program……………………………………………………………………13
Role of Internship Supervisor……………………………………………………………………………..14
Paying an Intern………………………………………………………………………………………………...15
Unpaid as Defined by the Department of Labor……………………………………………………15
Other Forms of Benefits……………………………………………………………………………………...15
Insurance Considerations…………………………………………………………………………………...16
Retaining Talent at Your Organization………………………………………………………………...17
Internship Forms Used by the School of Business Administration………………………...17
Mid Term and Final Evaluation…………………………………………………………………………...17
Student Guide to a Successful Internship Experience
What is an internship?...........................................................................................................................22
The Difference between an Internship and a Part-time job……………………………..........23
Why Intern?................................................................................................................................................23
Other Types of Experiential Learning………………………………………………….......................24
Getting an Internship………………………………………………………………………………………….25
Resources for Locating Internships……………………………………………………........................26
Applying for Internships…………………………………………………………………………………….32
A Note for International Students………………………………………………………………………..33
Maximizing the Internship Experience………………………………………………………………..34
Keys to Developing a Professional Reputation……………………………………………………..35
Frequently Asked Questions About an Internship………………………………………………..38
Academic Credit Internship……………………………………………………………............................40
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Employer Guide to Structuring a Meaningful
Internship Experience
Dear Employer:
Thank you for your interest in supervising and mentoring a School of
Business Administration intern. Your participation provides interns the
opportunity for both personal and professional growth. Interns and
volunteers have been commended for their diligence, work ethic, and
professionalism. We are confident that you will find them a welcomed
addition to your staff. Please take a moment to review this guide and
learn more about expectations for working with interns.
This guide will outline the basic fundamentals involved in designing an
internship program, and illustrate the benefits of investing in an
experiential learning program.
Thank you,
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation
Note: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) protects the
privacy of student education records which includes, but not limited to, the
student’s transcripts, GPA, grades, social security number, and academic
evaluations.
FERPA prohibits the disclosure of a student’s “protected information” to a third
party without the student’s consent. This disclosure is prohibited whether it is
made by hand delivery, verbally, fax, mail, or electronic transmission. With respect
to third parties, even if the initial disclosure of protected information is permissible,
FERPA limits the subsequent disclosure of the information by the third party. For
purposes of FERPA, at third party includes any individual or organization other
than the student or student’s parent(s).
A special thanks to the University of Rhode Island and Dr. Kim Stacks for
assistance in developing this guide.
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Creating a Mutually Beneficial Relationship
The rise in global competition for a talented and innovative workforce brings
opportunities for employers to gain a competitive edge.
What is the best experiential option for your organization?
Experiential Learning provides students with direct experience through which they
can use analytical skills and reflection to apply new ideas gained from the experience
to their classroom learning. Experiential learning includes internships, service
learning, and various practicum opportunities. Determine what the best fit your
organization is by considering the following definitions:
Volunteer is a person who performs a service willingly, without pay or credit in order
to support a cause.
Service Learning is curriculum‐based emphasizing hands‐on learning while
addressing real world concerns. The service experience provides a context for
translating discipline based theories into practice.
Civic Engagement offers a broad concept of community involvement and awareness
that can include service, advocacy, service learning, volunteerism and political
participation, with the goal of helping to develop community based knowledge, values
and skills.
Capstone/Project Based Learning course is the culmination of learning in the major.
A student generally works on a single large project‐‐such as a thesis paper or large
research project‐‐for the entire semester.
Externships (Job Shadow) provide an initial exposure to a career for a brief period of
time (such as one day per week or a couple hours per week) by having students
“shadow” an experienced employee or professional. Externships may include
academic credit when connected to a course.
Internships are defined by the National Association of Colleges and Employers
(NACE) as: “a form of experiential learning that integrates knowledge and theory
learned in the classroom with practical application and skills development in a
professional setting. Internships give students the opportunity to gain valuable
applied experience and make connections in professional fields they are considering
for career paths; and give employers the opportunity to guide and evaluate talent.” In
addition, an internship is a semester (fall, spring, summer) in duration, may or may
not carry credit, may be paid or unpaid based on the Department of Labor criteria
(See Page 15 for DOL Requirements).
A Student Employee is a person who is hired to provide services to an organization
on a regular basis in exchange for compensation, not for academic credit. This is
appropriate when you don’t meet Department of Labor 6 Prong test.
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A closer look at a Volunteer
A Volunteer might be the best fit for your organization if you are looking for one time
assistance at an event or program or if you need a few hours per week of service
(unless agreed upon, volunteering is typically limited to 3 – 12 hours per week).
Unlike an Internship, the focus of a volunteer position is primarily on the service
being completed and the individual or issue receiving that service. An internship will
primarily focus on the learning experience of the student and the benefits to the
organization/employer are secondary. Service Learning is a balance between the two
with equal focus on learning, service and benefits to recipients and providers.
A closer look at an Intern
Often times an internship is the ideal fit for an individual and employer. An internship
is any carefully monitored meaningful learning experience in which an individual has
intentional professional goals and reflects actively on what he or she is accomplishing
throughout the experience. Developing an internship program is an excellent strategy
for investing in your organization’s future successes, often leading to discovering
future colleagues and leaders.
A typical internship:
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Includes developing intentional learning objective goals that are structured into the
experience and supervised by a professional with relevant and related background in
the field.
Promotes academic, career and/or personal development.
Includes learning objectives, observation, reflection, and evaluation.
Balances the intern’s learning goals with the organization’s needs.
Typically lasts three months. May be part-time or full-time.
Involves industry related and soft skill development.
May be carefully monitored and evaluated for academic credit.
Provides adequate supervision in a reasonably safe environment with the necessary
tools to perform the learning goals agreed upon for the duration of the internship.
Includes a designated and insured office space.
An internship is not:
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Unpaid or unsupervised labor.
Meant to replace an employee.
More than 20% busy work (filing, covering phone, errands).
How Do Employers Benefit from an Internship
Program?
It is important to note that students should be the primary beneficiaries of internships,
meaning that they are expecting a meaningful learning experience. One of the more
significant advantages to providing internships is the opportunity to select and develop your
future talent. You have the opportunity to evaluate and screen potential employees prior to
making a full-time position offer, which leads to financial savings. Employers have reported
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converting more than half of eligible interns into full-time hires. If hired in a permanent
position, previous interns assimilate faster to their new roles and have shorter learning
curves than external hires.
Interns can:
• Provide freedom for professional staff to pursue creative or more advanced
projects.
• Increase staff retention rate.
• Assist an organization in application of the latest strategies and techniques in the
field.
• Maintain connections with colleges and increase visibility on campus.
• Promote community involvement
- Excellent public relations tool.
• Recruit other students and generate enthusiasm.
• Create awareness of the field for future hires.
• Give to the community by teaching the prospective work force.
• Allow staff to learn about mentoring as a professional development point.
Writing an Internship Posting Description
Employers are competing to gain a student’s interest and stand out among the rest. When
writing your posting, treat the description as an opportunity to showcase the internship. If
you want to attract the best candidate, be sure your description is as honest and accurate as
possible, including the full scope of the job and responsibilities.
Questions to consider before writing the position description:
• Why will students want to apply for your opportunity over others in the industry?
• Does your opportunity illustrate how it will be a unique experience?
• Do you fully define the benefits and incentives your organization can provide?
Writing an internship description is essential to recruiting the right individual. Write the
description in clear, everyday language that will help the student understand the position and
your organization culture. If the opportunity offers a broad exposure to many elements in
your organization, be sure to state that in the description. Interns need to know accurate
expectations upfront.
The essential components of an effective internship
description include:
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Explain the organization’s goals and
mission
Outline the intern’s responsibilities
and potential tasks/projects
Describe skills that will be developed
Illustrate the necessary qualifications
Skills (computer, analytical, design,
communications, etc.)
Education level (year, GPA, etc.)
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Majors
Clarify the duration of the internship
Hours required per week
Flexibility with schedule or specific
hours
Type: summer, semester, etc.
Note if it’s paid or unpaid
Specify how to apply – provide contact
information
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SAMPLE: MARKETING INTERNSHIP DESCRIPTION
INSURANCE COMPANY
STUDENT INTERN-MARKETING DEPARTMENT
Internship Description: Our company has more than a century of experience as a personal lines
insurance carrier. Consistently ranked highest in customer satisfaction by its policyholders, our
company is strong, stable and financially secure.
Our office located in Oxford, MS, is seeking an intern for our Marketing Department. This is a paid
internship, and the working hours are 37.50 hours per week during the summer months. The selected
candidate will be responsible for assisting and supporting the Marketing Department with a variety of
social media and marketing initiatives.
Job Functions and Responsibilities:
Social media focus includes:
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Assist with social media engagement by helping manage social channels.
Drafting and editing copy for social channels.
Monitoring social media web analytics on a weekly basis (e.g., page views, twitter followers),
and provide reports of growth and other activity.
Marketing/advertising focus includes:
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Engaging with marketing teams on a regular basis to brainstorm ideas for new and
innovative marketing and social media campaigns.
Assist with gathering data for marketing reports and supporting a variety of marketing and
advertising programs.
General responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
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Researching industry-specific sites (blogs, forums, etc.) for product reviews, customer
comments, and other relevant marketing information.
Maintaining marketing program files.
Job Requirements:
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Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge and experience with Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and other social media
platforms.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
Property and casualty insurance knowledge a plus.
Our internship is designed for individuals who are currently enrolled at an accredited
college/university and who will be continuing their undergraduate studies in the fall.
Candidates should be seeking a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Public Relations,
Communications or Journalism.
All applicants must submit a cover letter.
Transportation to and from the internship environment.
Must have 3.0 GPA or above
Qualifications: Please see job description.
Hours Per Week: 37.5
Wage/ Salary: Hourly
Internship Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
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Posting Your Internship
The University of Mississippi and the School of Business Administration offer several
methods to promote your internship opportunity. Keep in mind that the timing of
your post is crucial and should take into consideration the academic calendar at the
University of Mississippi.
EmployUM
The University of Mississippi Career Center has a database (EmployUM) that allows
employers to post job/internship opportunities for free.
EmployUM uses
GradLeaders software that allows you to post and manage your jobs/internships,
request on-campus interview space and schedules, register for career fairs, search
resume databases and download resumes.
The Career Center’s recruiting coordinator will approve pending request/events in
EmployUM. This will allow all registered students to sign up online for
jobs/internships and interview opportunities. The recruiting coordinator will be the
primary contact person for all on-campus event arrangements for employers and
students.
To begin using EmployUM you will need an account:
• To register for EmployUM, please go to www.HireOleMissRebs.com, click on
Employer Login Link and register your company by providing the requested
information. Once you have submitted your company’s profile, you will be
given access to EmployUM.
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If you already have an account in EmployUM, simply go to
www.HireOleMissRebs.com, click on Employer Login and enter your
username and password information.
If you have any questions, please contact the Career Center at 662-915-7174 or e-mail
[email protected] or [email protected] for assistance.
School of Business Administration
The School of Business Administration offers a direct line of contact from your
organization to Ole Miss Business students. With 4 Departments and 10 majors, we
are sure to fit your internship needs.
Departments: Marketing, Management, Finance, and MIS.
Majors: Marketing, Marketing and Corporate Relations, Management, General
Business, Banking and Finance, Finance, Risk Management and Insurance, Real
Estate, Economics, and MIS.
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To post an internship with the School of Business Administration, please submit your
internship posting to:
Wesley F. Dickens, M.A., CDF
Coordinator of Career Preparation and Internships
The University of Mississippi School of Business Administration
Office: 662.915.6546 | Fax: 662.915.5821
[email protected] | www.olemissbusiness.com
The Role of the Office of Undergraduate Career
Preparation
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation is well-equipped to provide
assistance in the internship process.
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation can help
you with any of the following:
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Framing job postings to attract potential interns.
Providing guidance on what to expect from an intern.
Providing guidance on supervision and mentoring to support student intern
growth.
Determining if the planned internship provides a meaningful learning
experience.
Evaluation and assessment of the internship experience.
Integrating your feedback into future internship procedures.
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation will not:
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Provide you with a “match” for your internship position.
- While we do assist students with their internship search, the search is
guided by their interests and pursued by the student.
Provide you with an employee.
- The student is coming to you to learn an industry in which they may
want to work. The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation does
not provide the student training for your industry.
Making an Internship Offer
When you feel you have found the candidate with the appropriate experience,
professionalism, maturity and who is a mutually beneficial fit for the organization,
make an offer. Just as in a permanent full-time job search, students may be applying
and interviewing for internships with multiple organizations. Thus, it is best to make
an offer as soon as a decision has been made. At this time, a work schedule should be
set, compensation agreed upon, and appropriate paperwork completed for human
resources and the student’s internship requirements
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Upon the acceptance of the offer, remove your internship from all places where it is
posted (e.g., college/university websites) to prevent further applications.
How Do Student Interns Benefit from an
Internship Program?
Students are seeking opportunities that stimulate their interests and provide realworld experiences. A meaningful, purposeful internship program will:
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Ensure the assignment of challenging projects and tasks.
Provide projects that complement academic programs and/or career
interests.
Give broad exposure to the organization (remember: this is a chance for
them to personally develop and explore career possibilities).
Provide adequate, reliable, and regular supervision and mentoring.
Ensure interns are keeping pace and accomplishing goals.
Provide an orientation to familiarize the student with your company or
organization.
Create a professional network.
Demonstrate industry relevance.
Provide real life experience.
Enable the intern to establish a professional network.
Learning Goals
At the start of the internship it is recommended that the supervisor and intern create
a list of learning goals the intern hopes to complete. The learning goals serve as the
academic and professional roadmap for the intern’s semester with your organization.
This activity helps to clearly identify the intern’s learning objectives and how the
intern plans to accomplish them. Creating these goals is also an opportune time to
discuss work place requirements, intern responsibilities, and hours expected to
complete (to earn credit). We ask our supervisors to take the time to meet with the
interns during the first week of the internship to discuss and negotiate learning goals.
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SAMPLE LEARNING GOALS: BUSINESS
SERVICE AND TRAINING MANAGER
PROFESSIONAL OBJECTIVES
Objective 1: To create an improved interviewing and hiring system that will lead to
more accurate and relevant interviewing, lower turnover and a stronger team.
Activities/Resources:
• Evaluate current interviewing forms.
• Alter the forms to be more behaviorally based; create new forms if necessary.
• Determine desired qualities (experience, availability, customer focus, etc.) and
the importance of each characteristic.
• Determine the most effective way to receive the information from the
applicant.
Evidence:
• Include data that highlights lower turnover in Quarter 4.
• Include original forms and procedures.
Objective 2: Create a more efficient system of training to provide a consistent,
comprehensive New Employee Orientation to all associates in an engaging manner.
Activities/Resources:
• Create a system of training that is consistent for each new employee.
• Maintain a fun, engaging environment.
• Create an environment of trust and camaraderie.
• Get feedback from new associates for any alterations needed.
Evidence:
• Include an electronic version of the new training binder.
DETAILS
Duties include:
• Interviewing and hiring new associates
• Training new and existing employees on best practices
• Giving coaching and feedback to all associates regarding performance
• Meeting Customer Experience Survey requirements (currently #3 in the
district)
• Managing card goals (currently #9 in the district)
Evaluation methods:
• Daily communication with Store Manager
• Weekly meetings for evaluation and feedback
• Quarterly performance reviews
Expected workdays:
• Monday 8-5pm
• Tuesday 1-10pm
Start date: January 23
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Thursday 1-10pm
Friday 8-5pm
End date: May 2
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Providing an Intern Orientation to your
Organization
Familiarize your intern with the company, work site, and culture of
your organization.
It is very important that interns be warmly welcomed and introduced throughout
your organization, just as you would welcome a new full-time employee. Not only are
interns new to your organization, in many cases, they are new to the professional
world of work.
Many students are unfamiliar with the activities, environment and objectives of your
organization. Even though your interns may have worked part-time to support their
education, these experiences may not have exposed them to organizational politics,
the need for confidentiality, the importance of teamwork, or the profit-making nature
of business. It is during the orientation and training that these issues and information
about the organization are addressed.
The sooner your intern understands your organization and how it operates, the
sooner he or she can assume assigned responsibilities and contribute. Expectations
can vary based on the size of your organization, but in general, be sure to review:
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Hours
Dress code
Overall responsibilities
Safety regulations and requirements
Lunch hour policy
Absenteeism policy
Cell phone/social media policies
How you prefer to be reached/communication preferences (e.g., email,
phone)
Designing Your Internship Program
Prior to hiring an intern, an employer must understand how interns will fit within the
company’s goals and culture. Since organizations vary in age, size, industry, and
product, so too will internship activities.
Questions that may determine what kind of program will work best for you:
• What does your organization hope to gain from the program?
• Is your organization looking to fulfill a need on a specific project? Will this
internship(s) encompass one major project, or entail a variety of small
projects?
• What are the tools and workspace necessary to provide the student?
• What talents, academic background and experience do you want in an intern?
Decide on qualifications early on to help you select the best candidate.
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•
Who will be primarily responsible for the intern(s)? Will that person be a
mentor, supervisor, or both?
Learn about prospective interns: All interns want to develop new skills and
the best way to know what skills an intern is hoping to gain is to interview them. This
will help direct their work activities towards those skills.
It is important that employers realize that school and classes must
remain a top priority for interns if they are current students. The
internship position should enhance their learning experience. Understand that for
most interns this is a new experience and they may need support in balancing their
schoolwork and internship. Agreeing on a set number of hours interns will work each
week and offering flex-time for freedom to plan their schedules on a weekly basis are
two ways to support balance.
The hours worked by interns can vary, but most typically complete
10-20 hours per week. If the student is enrolled in the BUS 500
Business Internship class, then they must complete 320 hours over
a 15 week period (approximately 21 hours a week) in order to
receive academic credit.
Role of an Internship Supervisor
It’s going to be important to identify a supervisor for your intern(s) who will
familiarize them with the organization, provide assignments and serve as a “contact”
person for questions. It’s recommended that the intern supervisor be an expert in the
type of work the intern(s) will be performing to provide the appropriate guidance for
the intern’s assignments. An intern supervisor’s responsibilities will include:
• Taking part in an intern’s application, screening, and interview process
• Conducting intern orientation with the intern
• Developing learning goals with the intern
• Meeting with an intern regularly to evaluate performance and if needs/goals
are being met; and assessing the internship program’s success
• Working closely with the School of Business Administration
Role of an Internship Mentor: In addition to the supervisor, a mentor may
assist with transition into this new learning environment. This is done by answering
general questions related to personal and professional growth, and sharing career
knowledge leading to networking in the field.
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Paying an Intern
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Wages for most internship opportunities are usually determined before the
intern is hired and are not typically negotiated.
Consider paying consistent wages to all interns within each department.
Students in technical fields are generally paid more than nontechnical fields.
Pay for interns often varies by location, type of industry, size of organization,
etc.
An internship needs to adhere to a W-2, NOT a 1099.
If you have questions regarding the pay scale for your intern, please feel free to reach
out to Wesley Dickens, Coordinator of Career Preparation and Internships at
[email protected] or 662-915-6546.
Unpaid as Defined by the Department of Labor
If you are deciding between paid and unpaid internships, it is important to know if
the U.S. Fair Labor Standards Act applies to your organization.
The U.S. Fair Labor Standards Act restricts employer’s use of unpaid interns. This Act
applies to businesses that have two or more employees directly engaged in interstate
commerce as well as annual sales of $500,000 or more. Interns who qualify as
trainees do not have to be paid. If you find you cannot pay your intern, you must meet
these six criteria for determining trainee status (as determined by the U.S.
Department of Labor). The intern is the primary beneficiary based on the extent to
which:
1. The internship, even though it includes actual operation of the facilities of the
employer, is similar to training which would be given in an educational environment;
2. The internship experience is for the benefit of the intern;
3. The intern does not displace regular employees, but works under close supervision
of existing staff;
4. The employer that provides the training derives no immediate advantage from the
activities of the intern; and on occasion its operations may actually be impeded;
5. The intern is not necessarily entitled to a job at the conclusion of the internship; and
6. The employer and the intern understand that the intern is not entitled to wages for
the time spent in the internship.
Other Forms of Benefits
Offering benefits may provide incentives for talented students to accept one
internship position over another or increase the intern’s commitment during the
experience.
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Forms of benefits include:
• Transportation assistance
• Scholarships
• Housing assistance for those who relocate
• Professional development networking events
• Time worked as an intern can accumulate and apply toward benefits if turned
into a full-time employee after graduation
• Paid holidays (if already receiving compensation)
• Tuition reimbursement
Insurance Considerations
Employers, interns, parents and colleges/universities should be
aware of insurance considerations:
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Accident/liability insurance: provided by the intern/parent/guardian (some
organizations may require the school to provide liability insurance.)
Automobile accident insurance: provided by the intern/parent/guardian.
Health/Life insurance: provided by the intern/parent/guardian.
Worker’s compensation: does not apply for interns participating in non-paid
internship experiences, but if injured at the internship site, should be
covered by the intern/parent/guardian personal insurance. (Paid internships
require that students be covered by worker’s compensation.)
The Affordable Care Act (ACA), the Employer Mandate and
Internships/Co-Ops:
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The employer mandate: Full-time employees (30+ hours) must be offered
health insurance by the employer (if the employer has 50+ employees)
It doesn’t apply to unpaid internships
It can apply to paid internships
Employer of 50+ employees would have to offer insurance if:
o The student works 30+ hours per week AND
o The student works more than 6 months (otherwise they are a
“seasonal” or temporary employee)
If the employer has to offer insurance:
o They only have to offer the insurance
o They will not be penalized if the student does not take their
insurance package, BECAUSE
o Most students are required to hold insurance (either through their
parent(s) or through the University of Mississippi) and these plans
almost always qualify as ACA compliant.
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Retaining Talent at Your Organization
There are many ways to make the internship both memorable and engaging for both
the intern and employer. Here are some examples of ways to enrich an internship
experience:
Social Activities: Whether it is employees and interns going out to lunch, or
employees taking interns to a local baseball game, engaging in these activities
provides a great opportunity to get to know one another on a more personal level.
They also provide interns a chance to get to know other interns and employees with
whom they have not worked. Many employers with successful internship programs
state that their social activities are rated by interns as one of the top highlights of their
experience.
Participation in Volunteer/Community Service days: A great way to
show interns the values of your organization and to provide time for them to talk to
other employees and interns is to include them in any community service or
volunteer days your organization has planned. Not only will they get to meet more
employees and participate in a good cause, they will be able to see your company’s
dedication to service – an important value among the millennial generation.
Professional Development Activities: Allow interns to develop their
professional skills by allowing them to sit in on meetings and work with employees
in other departments for a day. Provide opportunities for interns to attend career
development events/seminars in the community to learn new skills.
Internship Forms Used by the School of Business
Administration
The University of Mississippi School of Business Administration offers a 3 credit hour
course - BUS 500 - for internships. The student enrolled in BUS 500 must complete
several internship forms prior to completing the internship in order to receive
academic credit. (See BUS 500 syllabus with internship forms on page 40-45)
Mid-Term and Final Evaluation by
Employer
An internship can only be a true learning experience if constructive feedback is
provided. An effective evaluation will focus on the intern’s initial learning objectives
identified at the start of the internship. Supervisors should take time to evaluate both
the student’s positive accomplishments and areas for improvement.
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Interns will look to their mentors and/or supervisors to help them transition from
the classroom to the workplace. It is recommended that mentors and/or supervisors
regularly meet with interns to receive and provide feedback concerning their
performance. During these meetings the students may:
•
•
•
•
•
Report on a project’s status
Learn how their work is contributing to the organization
Participate in evaluating their strengths
Discuss areas needing growth and development
Get insight about what work lies ahead
Typically supervisors also complete formal evaluations of their interns at the
midpoint and end of the internship. Employers are encouraged to review the
evaluation with the intern before he or she leaves. Evaluations are helpful when
determining the intern’s success within the organization for future internships or
employment upon graduation.
SAMPLE EMPLOYER EVALUATION OF STUDENT INTERN
Student: _______________________________ Organization: __________________________________
1- Unsatisfactory (Never demonstrates this ability/does not meet expectations)
2- Uncomplimentary (Seldom demonstrates this ability/rarely meets
expectations)
3- Fair (Sometimes demonstrates this ability/meets expectations)
4- Commendable (Usually demonstrates this ability/sometimes exceeds
expectations)
5- Exceptional (Always demonstrates this ability/consistently exceeds
expectations)
N/A - If any specific criteria are not applicable to this internship experience
A. Motivation to Learn
1. Asks pertinent and purposeful questions
2. Seeks out and utilizes appropriate resources
3. Accepts responsibility for mistakes and learns from experiences
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
B. Reading/Writing/Computation Skills
1. Reads/comprehends/follows written materials
2. Communicates ideas and concepts clearly in writing
3. Works with mathematical procedures appropriate to the job
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
C. Listening & Oral Communication Skills
1. Listens to others in an active and attentive manner
2. Effectively participates in meetings or group settings
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
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3. Demonstrates effective verbal communication skills
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
D. Creative Thinking & Problem Solving Skills
1. Breaks down complex tasks/problems into manageable pieces
2. Brainstorms/develops options and ideas
3. Demonstrates an analytical capacity
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
E. Professional & Career Development Skills
1. Exhibits self-motivated approach to work
2. Demonstrates ability to set appropriate priorities/goals
3. Exhibits professional behavior and attitude
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
F. Interpersonal & Teamwork Skills
1. Manages and resolves conflict in an effective manner
2. Supports and contributes to a team atmosphere
3. Demonstrates assertive but appropriate behavior
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
G. Organizational Effectiveness Skills
1. Seeks to understand and support the organization’s mission/goals 1 2 3 4 5 N/A
2. Fits in with the norms and expectations of the organization
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
3. Works within appropriate authority and decision-making channels 1 2 3 4 5 N/A
H. Basic Work Habits
1. Reports to work as scheduled and on-time
2. Exhibits a positive and constructive attitude
3. Dress and appearance are appropriate for this organization
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
I. Character Attributes
1. Brings a sense of values and integrity to the job
2. Behaves in an ethical manner
3. Respects the diversity (religious/cultural/ethnic) of co-workers
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
1 2 3 4 5 N/A
J. Open Category: Industry-Specific Skills
Are there any skills or competencies that you feel are important to the profession or
career-field (represented by your organization) that have not been previously listed
in this evaluation?
If so, please list these skills below and assess the intern accordingly.
1.
2.
3.
12345
12345
12345
K. Comments:
19 | P a g e
L. Overall Performance (if I were to rate the intern at the present time)
Unsatisfactory
0
1
2
Poor
3
4
Average
5
6
Good
7
8
Outstanding
9
10
This assessment was reviewed with the intern on
(Month/Day/Year) ______________________.
Evaluator’s Signature: ___________________________________
Title/Position: ___________________________________________
Date: _______________
Telephone: _____________
Conclusion
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation would like to thank you for your
interest in supervising and mentoring a School of Business Administration intern. We
are hopeful that you found this internship guide helpful and look forward to helping
your organization create an excellent internship experience.
Resources:
Employer Guide to Creating a Meaningful Internship Experience, (n.d.) Retrieved from
Bridgejobs.com.
Intern Today, Employee Tomorrow: The Indiana Employer’s Guide to Internships
(n.d.).Retrieved from http://indianaintern.net/pdf/IIN-EmployersGuide1-11-1.pdf.
Employer’s Guidebook to Developing a Successful Internship Program (n.d.).Retrieved
from http://neded.org/files/businessdevelopment/internne/EmployerGuidebook_Developing
SuccessfulInternshipProgram.pdf
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Student Guide to a Successful Internship
Experience
Dear Ole Miss Business Student:
Congratulations, you’re taking a positive step for your future by
participating in an internship experience. Internships provide you with
an opportunity for both personal and professional growth, not to
mention they give you valuable experience that employers seek.
This guide will outline the basic fundamentals involved in participating
and getting the most out of your internship experience.
Thank you,
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation
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Understanding the Basics
What is an internship?
An internship is an experiential learning experience related to your major or career
goals. As an intern, you may work full- or part-time, paid or unpaid (and/or for
academic credit). The internship is usually the length of the semester during fall,
spring, or summer, but some last up to a year.
Full-time/Part-time Internships: Typically, an internship taken during the fall or
spring semester allows a student to intern 10-20 hours a week while taking classes.
During the summer, however, many students will opt to intern full-time and forgo
taking classes.
Paid/Unpaid Internshps: Some internships are unpaid as corporations see gaining
experience as a form of payment. This is especially true if you have little or no
practical experience in the industry. Some, however, do offer an hourly wage or a
stipend. Other forms of payment may include: scholarships, tuition reimbursement,
or housing assistance. In evaluating your internship options, the quality of the
opportunity should be the primary criterion. (Please see page 15-16 for more
information on paid/unpaid internships)
For Academic Credit Internshps: The School of Business Administration offers a
BUS 500: Business Internship Course that allows students to receive academic
credit for their internship. You can receive BUS 500 credit for an internship if:
1.
2.
3.
4.
You will be working at the internship at least 320 hours during the semester.
You have Junior or Senior standing.
You have a GPA of 2.5 or greater.
You will not be taking more than 6 credit hours of coursework over and above the 3
credit hours for BUS 500 during the semester.
5. You apply to register for the BUS 500 course prior to starting your internship and
pay the tuition for this course.
(Please see page 40-45 for BUS 500 syllabus and requirements)
An Internship is NOT just administrative work: While an internship may involve
work like making copies and filing, the experience should not ONLY be those type of
tasks or it would not be considered a true internship. An internship should be tied to
specific learning goals that complement your academic experience. To get the most
out of your internship experience, be sure to ask for additional tasks that align with
your professional goals.
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The Difference between an Internship and a
Part-Time Job
Differentiating between an internship and a part-time job is important for you to
consider before beginning an internship. The following comparisons are helpful in
making the determination:
INTERNSHIP

Part-Time Job
Completed for learning experience. Can
be for: credit/no credit; credit and pay;
pay/no pay
Learning objectives reflect the goals of
the student, the outcomes expected by
the employer, and the requirements of
the Faculty Internship Supervisor (if for
credit)
Projects or ongoing work that is
purposeful and of a professional nature

Completed for monetary purposes

Learn tasks of job in order to complete
the work adequately but not necessarily
for personal gain

Duration/Hours: part-time to full-time;
semester or a summer(2-3 months);
occasionally extended into next semester
or year
Supervisor serves as a mentor figure to
aid the student in the learning process

Assigned work that needs to be
completed, not necessarily professional
in nature
Duration/Hours: no specific start/end
date or designated time frame

Supervisor serves as an authority figure
to whom the employee reports

Allows for learning of transferable skills
that you do not yet possess.

Serves to fill a basic position within the
place of employment

The opportunity to obtain “real world”
experience in your field of interest and
learn first-hand about companies,
careers.




Why Intern?
1. Test your career choices
How do you truly know you want to do something unless you have done it before?
An internship allows you to “try on” a career before making a long term commitment.
It can help you discover if the career you’re considering is right (or wrong) for you.
2. Increase your marketability
Employers consistently rate internship experience as one of the top criteria used
when selecting candidates. Employers look for students with education and
experience.
�A
N INTERNSHIP
23 | P a g e
3. Develop skills and apply knowledge
Apply theories and knowledge learned in the classroom to actual on-the-job
experiences. Develop skills specific to your chosen industry and confidence in the
skills you already possess.
4. Acquire job search skills
Create a professional resume, sharpen your interviewing skills, and practice
interacting professionally. These skills are essential for finding a job or for applying
to graduate school.
5. Build networking contacts
An internship is a great opportunity to build a network of contacts in your chosen
career field. In addition, over half of all interns are hired by the organization where
they interned!
Other Types of Experiential Learning
Participating in an internship experience is a commitment that requires time.
However, there are other ways to “test drive” a career before making this
commitment:
Externships (Job Shadow) provide an initial exposure to a career for a brief period of
time (such as one day a week or a couple hours per week) where you can “shadow”
an experienced employee or professional.
Volunteering for an organization that is in an industry you’re interested in is a great
way to build experience and skills relevant to your field.
Informational Interviewing provides an opportunity for you to interview
professionals that are in a career that interests you. Be sure to be mindful of the
person’s time (interview them no longer than 20-30 minutes) and have questions
prepared.
Sample Informational Interviewing Questions
On a typical day in this position, what
do you do?
Where do you expect to be in 5 to 10
years in your career?
How did you find your job?
How do you see jobs in this field
changing in the future?
What educational and career
requirements are necessary for this
work?
What suggestions can you give a college
student who is interested in this field as
a career?
24 | P a g e
What are the pros/cons about working
in this industry/company?
Who else should I contact to learn more
about career paths related to this
industry?
What is the best educational
preparation?
What are the personal attributes that
are essential for success in this field?
What training opportunities are
available in an entry level job?
How do most people get into this field?
Why do people leave the field?
How much travel is required for the
work?
Which professional journals,
organizations, or websites are
recommended?
What do you wish you had known
before choosing your career path?
What can I do to expand my
experiences to fit in this career area?
Is it necessary to change companies in
order to advance?
How many hours a week do staff work
on average?
Contact Wesley Dickens, Coordinator of Career Preparation and Internships, at 662915-6546 or [email protected] for more tips and strategies on experiential
learning.
Getting an Internship
When Do I begin?
The entire process of finding an internship – from identifying potential employers, to
applying, interviewing, and accepting a position – will likely take several months.
Consider an Internship Timeline: Typically, college students complete their
internships during their junior or senior year, but few realize that they have to plan
ahead. It is recommended that you begin the internship search process at least six
months before you plan to intern.
Some industries have application deadlines many months prior to the intended start
date. The earlier you start your search, the more opportunities you will find
available.
Use this checklist as a general guide to locating an internship:
Freshman Year
 Visit the Career Center located in 303 Martindale and the Office of
Undergraduate Career Preparation located on the 1st floor of Holman (Room
G6 and G7)
 Meet with a Career Advisor and possibly take a career assessment to select
your major or career path
 Explore Ole Miss academic programs
 Join a club or participate in campus activities
 Create a résumé and cover letter
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Sophomore Year
 Meet with a Career Advisor to clarify your major and career options
 Declare a major by the end of the academic year
 Schedule an informational interview or job shadow a professional working in
a field that interests you
 Complete Career Preparation Activities in BUS 271: Business Communication
 Connect with the Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation to discuss
internship and career preparation
 Register with EmployUM, the Ole Miss online job/internship board
Junior Year
 Determine the field, industry, and geographic region where you would
consider interning
 Inform everyone in your personal network, including family, friends,
neighbors, advisors, mentors, and faculty members, that you are seeking
career related experience
 Refine your cover letter and résumé
 Practice your job interviewing skills with Interview Stream or a Mock
Interview in the Career Center/Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation
 Attend Career Center/School of Business Administration networking events
where you will meet potential organizations offering internships
 Arrange for an informational interview within a career industry of interest,
to learn more about the field, get an inside look at an organization you may
want to work for, and identify potential contacts and opportunities
 Build your professional wardrobe
 Complete an internship
Senior Year
 Begin your internship/ job search early – develop a prospective employer list
and distribute your cover letter and résumé
 Refine your job interviewing skills
 Check out EmployUM and other online internship/job resources
 Intern possibly for a second time
Resources for Locating Internships
Finding the ideal internship takes time and dedication. However, if you follow these
steps then your hard work will pay off!
Step 1: Meet with the Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation is located in G6 and G7 on the 1st
floor of Holman Hall and will assist you in internship search strategies.
26 | P a g e
Meet with a staff member to:




Determine what you are searching for in terms of an ideal internship
Learn search strategies for finding an internship
Develop a resume and cover letter
Practice your interviewing skills through a mock interview
To schedule an appointment, please contact:
Wesley F. Dickens, M.A., CDF
Coordinator of Career Preparation and Internships
The University of Mississippi School of Business Administration
Office: 662.915.6546 | Fax: 662.915.5821
[email protected] | www.olemissbusiness.com
Step 2: Register for EmployUM (Job and Internship Database)
EmployUM is the University of Mississippi’s online job and internship database.
This database allows you to connect to:





Full-time and internship job listings
On-campus interviews for full-time jobs and internships
Electronic: resume, cover letter, and transcript storage
Track career center events and interview schedules
Additional on-line resources: Going Global and Vault
- Going Global: Resource for international jobs and internships
- Vault: Resource for in-depth intelligence on top jobs and internships
To log-in to EmployUM, go to www.HireOleMissRebs.com and select the Student Login link. As an incoming student you are automatically enrolled in the EmployUM
database, so there is no need to register. Your username and password are:


Username: Ole Miss Email Address
Password: Student ID # without 0
Once you are in the database, you may search internships by:
 Scroll over the “Jobs and Internship Search” tab and select “Job Search”
 Search for internships by selecting “Internship/Externship” in position type
 Arrange internship listings by clicking on expiration date or active/ inactive
listings.
 Research the position and apply by submitting the required documents
If you have any questions regarding EmployUM, please contact the Career Center at
662-915-7174.
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Step 3: Connect with the 3 F’s (Family, Friends, and Faculty/Alumni)
Networking is one of the best strategies for locating an internship. Speak with your
parents, relatives, friends, parent’s friends, college faculty and advisors, and career
advisors to let them know you are seeking an internship. Be specific and let them
know what type of internship you want and your career goals. Alumni and recent
graduates are also great resources for locating internships. You may identify
potential contacts with the help of the Career Center, Alumni Association, and the
Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation.
Sometimes a networking contact may not be able to offer an internship, but they can
still offer valuable advice. This provides the perfect opportunity for an informational
interview.
Don’t forget to always send a thank-you note to those who help you or meet with you
to show your appreciation for their expertise and time given.
Step 4: Utilize On-line Resources
Although on-line resources should not be the only way you search for internships,
they can be a great tool for your internship search in combination with other
strategies. The following are useful websites for your internship search:
1. Glassdoor.com
- Glassdoor allows you to search for internships and obtain industry
knowledge. It includes a growing database of more than 8
million company reviews, interview reviews and questions, and more.
2. GoingGlobal
- Located in the additional on-line resources tab within EmployUM,
GoingGlobal allows you to find international jobs and internships. It
also includes expert advice on CV, resume, work permit, and visa
requirements.
3. Indeed.com
- It is the most visited job search website in the United States. It pulls
positions and internships from all over the web. Just type in what you
are looking for and where!
4. Internships.com
- Internships.com is the world’s largest student-focused internship
marketplace, bringing students, employers and higher education
institutions together in one centralized location. This website has over
150,000 internships from 100,000 employers in 7,000 cities!
5. Looksharp.com
- Looksharp is an internship and entry-level jobs marketplace dedicated
entirely to students and new grads.
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6. Internqueen.com
- Internqueen has internships in a variety of fields including:
communication, public relations, and marketing. This site also provides
great advice and strategies for your internship search.
7. Idealist.org
- Idealist has thousands of job and internship opportunities at non-profit
organizations throughout the United States and globally.
8. USAjobs.gov
- The federal government provides opportunities for students and
recent graduates to gain valuable experience no matter their major or
experience level. Go to usajobs.gov and click on students and recent
graduates. To learn more about the federal hiring process, go to
gogovernment.org or go by the Career Center for assistance with the
application process.
9. Vault
- Located in the additional on-line resources tab within EmployUM, Vault
provides in-depth intelligence on what it’s really like to work within an
industry, company, or profession—and how to position yourself to
launch and build the career you want. This site also ranks the top
internships and gives you tips and strategies for applications.
10. Google.com
- Google is a great way to get a feel for what internships are available.
Just type in what you are looking for and you never know what
opportunities might show up!
Step 6: Social Media
LinkedIn and Twitter are a great way to connect with companies and see what
opportunities they have to offer.
LinkedIn: is the world’s largest professional social network. It is used widely by
recruiters, hiring managers, and professionals in hundreds of industries to both
develop themselves professionally and to find qualified candidates for open positions.
It allows you to network by geographic location, career interest, alumni associations,
and organizations. To ensure you are using it effectively:


Create a strong profile and personal brand. Visit
https://university.linkedin.com/ for tips on developing a student profile.
Network and connect professionally. Connect with at least 50 people to
make sure you are getting the most out of your LinkedIn experience. Search
for family members, friends and fellow students, internship or job supervisors,
coworkers, professors, former teachers and Ole Miss Alumni. Also, get
involved in LinkedIn groups. Start by joining Ole Miss Business School Group,
University of Mississippi Career Center Group, Ole Miss Alumni Group, and
professional organizations associated with your industry.
29 | P a g e

Find internship and job listings. Begin by searching for companies in which
you would like to find an internship or full-time position. These company
pages are a great resource for internship seekers and can contain information
like a brief overview of the organization, a listing of products and/or services
the company provides, job and internship opportunities currently available,
and much more! Also visit https://www.linkedin.com/studentjobs which
specifically filters full-time positions and internships that are appropriate for
undergraduate students and recent graduates.
Twitter: is a fast-paced way to learn up-to-date information about your field of
interest and those who are in it. It can also be a great way to maintain a strong online
presence.
 Create a strong profile. Make sure your Twitter handle is professional in
nature and complete the bio section with a version of your 30 second
commercial. This should include university, class year, major, and career
interests, along with keywords relevant to your career interests. Also include
a link to your LinkedIn profile, resume, personal website, blog or any other
relevant job search information.
 What to tweet? Use the 80/20 rule when tweeting. 80% of your tweets
should be professional in nature such as those that consist of promoting skills
on one’s resume, highlighting past or present internship experience, or
sharing interesting articles and news relevant to the industry. The other 20%
of your tweets can showcase your personality, but remember to keep it
professional.
 Follow companies you want to intern for, top leaders in your industry,
recruiters, and trade journals. Be sure to follow the University of Mississippi
Career Center for a listing of job/internship openings as they become available
in EmployUM.
 Find internship and job listings. Use the #internship to find listings of
internships. #tweetmyjobs—has been tagged nearly a million times and you
can utilize this in your job search. Go to http://www.tweetmyjobs.com/ to
learn more information. Other Job Listings—Find general job and internship
advice and lots of listings through hashtags like #jobs, #recruiting, #jobadvice,
#Internshipposting, #internshiphunt, and #internshipsearch. To narrow it
down, though, seek out more specific hashtags, such as #printernships or
#salesinternships. You may even use hashtags by college major, such as
#finance or #marketing and conversations relevant to the topic may appear.
Step 7: Attend Career and Internship Fairs
Each fall and spring semester, the Career Center hosts career fairs that allow students
to meet with employers who provide full-time and internship opportunities. To see
the dates of these events and the employers attending, please visit
www.career.olemiss.edu or call 662-915-7174.
30 | P a g e
The School of Business Administration hosts an internship fair every fall which is a
great opportunity for students to meet with companies looking for interns. To learn
more information, please contact Wesley Dickens, [email protected] or
662-915-6546.
The Ole Miss Risk Management Insurance (RMI) program coordinates biannual
career fairs that allow industry partners and RMI students to come together. Students
have found great opportunities for full-time and internship positions at these events.
These fairs take place in October and February and are limited to RMI majors and
those taking insurance classes.
Step 8: Direct Mail (E-mail) Campaigns/Contact Companies Directly
Research companies that you are interested in working with and contact them
directly. You may send an email to the hiring manager with your resume/cover letter
requesting an informational interview or asking if internships are available. Also, call
the company’s HR Department to set up meetings or request information. For some
students this may be out of their comfort zone, but the answer is always no if you
don’t ask! If contacting companies directly makes you feel uneasy, just Google
strategies for reaching out for internships. There are many templates on-line that you
can use to assist you in crafting an email/phone script that fits your needs.
Step 9: Other Campus Resources
The Division of Outreach and the Division of Global Engagement at the University of
Mississippi offers several programs that allow students to gain valuable experience.
New York and Washington Internship Experience
The New York and Washington Internship Experiences offer degree-seeking
University of Mississippi juniors and seniors the opportunity to gain practical work
experience in the Big Apple or our nation’s capital while earning academic credit in
their fields of study. Students work, with the assistance of UM staff, to secure an
internship that will give them useful professional experience that will enhance career
prospects upon graduation.
For more information, please see http://www.outreach.olemiss.edu/internships/.
Study USA
Study USA programs are short-term domestic travel classes typically offered during
intersession programs. Students submit an application to the Study USA office, and
once approved, will be enrolled in the program of their choice. Apply early –
enrollment is limited.
For more information, please see http://www.outreach.olemiss.edu/study_usa/.
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Internships Abroad
The Division of Global Engagement at the University of Mississippi offers programs
for internships abroad through the Office of Study Abroad.
For more information, please see https://studyabroad.olemiss.edu/.
Final Tip
Remember the students who are the most successful in their internship search
are proactive and dedicated.
Applying for Internships
Applying for Positions
 Record application deadlines and requirements, and establish a timeline for
each organization.
 Apply for internships and companies of interest by sending application
materials.
 Follow up with organizations via email or telephone no later than two weeks
after applying.
 Create an internship excel spreadsheet, both hard copy and electronic, and
keep detailed notes on where you applied, whom you spoken to, when you
sent your application, and when you followed up.
 Update your résumé to reflect new experiences, activities, and current
coursework.
 Prepare for interviews by researching interviewing strategies and
participating in a practice interview at the Office of Undergraduate Career
Preparation.
Making a Decision
 Continue sending out application materials to positions and companies of
interest until you have an official offer from a company.
 Continue contacting and following up with employers and organizations in
your areas of interest.
 Stay in contact with your professional network and keep them informed of
your job search.
 Work with the Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation as needed to finetune the process and receive support.
 Evaluate positions and negotiate start dates when you receive an offer.
 The amount of time you have to accept or refuse an offer varies by company,
industry, and start date.
Accepting the offer
You may accept an offer verbally, but be sure to draft an email of acceptance to make
it official. Send the employer an email restating the internship position, rate of pay (if
paid internship), starting date and any other important terms of the offer. Don’t
32 | P a g e
forget to inform all of your references, providing them with a proper thank-you. Also,
you should withdraw all applications from other internships once you have officially
accepted an offer.
Do not renege on the offer once you accept. It’s considered poor professional
etiquette to back out of an offer because another internship more to your liking comes
along afterward. Try to avoid damaging any professional relationships that you have
established with the organization.
Declining the offer
If you decide to decline the offer, do so in a professional manner by sending an email
or calling the hiring manager who extended the offer. Avoid negative language in your
email or conversation. Let the employer know that after carefully evaluating all of the
factors involved, you wish to decline the offer. Thank the employer for his/her
consideration and decline on a positive note so that you don’t breach any future
opportunities with the organization.
A Note for International Students
Looking for an internship as an international student has its own challenges. Many
employers have concerns about working with international students because they’re
afraid there will be communication barriers and difficulties adapting to the
company’s environment.
Make sure you emphasize:
 Intercultural skills
 Your ability to speak another language
 Experiences you have had working in the U.S.
 Be able to verify your ability to work in the United States by having the
proper documents available.
Most of the University of Mississippi international students hold F-1 visa status. All
full-time degree-seeking international students are eligible for the F-1 visa. However,
some students may also be eligible for the J-1 student visa. These students may choose
between F-1 or J-1 visa. To be eligible for the J-1 student visa a substantial portion of
your financial support (at least 50 % of your total funding) must be from a source
other than personal or family funds.
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Comparison between the J-1 and F-1 Status
J-1 VISA
F-1 VISA
Any employment on- or off-campus requires
On-campus employment does not require a
a work permit from the program sponsor.
work permit. (Limited to 20 hours per week
while school is in session)
Off-campus employment requires a work
permit from Office of International Programs
and/or the Immigration Service.
Post-degree Academic
Training (employment) is available for up to
18 months, but you must have a job offer
prior to the end of end of studies. An
Post-degree Optional Practical
Training employment permission is
available for a 12-month period. A job offer
is not required for 12-Month OPT.
extension for up to 18 months is possible for
An OPT extension for an additional 24
post-doctoral research. Off-campus work
months is possible for certain STEM majors.
during the degree program reduces the total
period of Academic Training available after
program completion.
Be sure to meet with your advisor in the Office of International Programs to discuss
options for experiential learning.
Maximizing the Internship Experience
It’s up to you to get the most out of your internship. Follow these steps to help
maximize your experience:
Set realistic goals and expectations
Meet with your supervisor to discuss your work plan. What specific skills and
competencies do you need to acquire and demonstrate? What is the time frame? What
training is available? Monitor your progress and arrange to meet with your
supervisor regularly. Share your career interests and ideas. Communicate concerns
early. If you are having problems getting an assignment completed, be sure to talk to
your supervisor and discuss ways to prioritize your tasks.
Maintain a “can do” attitude
Show your eagerness to learn new things by welcoming new assignments.
Understand all positions engage in a wide range of activities … some that catch your
eye while others do not. Tackle all assignments and projects with enthusiasm. Only
seek additional (more exciting) projects when completed with other assignments
assigned by your supervisor.
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Perform to the best of your ability
Be sure you understand the assignment and its deadline before you begin. If you need
assistance, ask. Check your work before submitting it to your supervisor. Ask for
feedback.
Be respectful of colleagues
You are the new person in the office and you can learn from every colleague,
regardless of rank. Show all of your colleagues that you value their opinion and
experience.
Support the team
Your ability to work well with others is key to your success. The team’s goals are your
goals. Understand how your work fits into theirs.
Understand the unwritten rules
As a new employee, you will absorb a tremendous amount of information. Observe.
What is appropriate attire? What are expected hours? How do things get done? How
do colleagues interact with one another? Are there office politics to steer away from?
Be flexible
You may be near the end of a project when you are asked to start a new one. Be aware
that priorities in an organization change. Your willingness and ability to switch gears
easily is required for your success. Your supervisor will help you to prioritize your
assignments.
Identify a mentor
A mentor may be assigned to you or you may need to identify your own. This is often
a more senior, respected professional in your field who would like to take a personal
interest in your career development. With your mentor, you will feel free to ask advice
about your career decisions.
Document your success
Record assignments, projects, and achievements. Keep copies of evaluations and
samples of your work. Ask for letters of recommendation. Keep these handy for future
career conversations.
Seek answers regarding the industry/company
Utilize the contacts that you meet to address any questions that you have about the
industry or company. This inside information can be extremely helpful during your
job search.
Keys to Developing a Professional Reputation
As an intern, you are expected to behave in a specific manner and take advantage of
the numerous resources and opportunities provided. In order to accomplish your
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learning objectives and develop a professional reputation, keep the following points
in mind:
Understand and respect company policies. Be aware of and respect company
policies about when and where you can use personal devices. Until you are clear
about the rules, turn off your cell phone and music, and use the Internet only as
allowed.
Define your role. You may be invited to attend staff meetings, decision-making
discussions, client negotiations, or other gatherings. Clarify your role prior to going
to these meetings so you behave in the expected manner.
Ask questions and request feedback. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need
clarification. Meet regularly with your supervisor for feedback about your efforts, to
learn more about the company, and learn more about his or her opinion.
Attend events. When invited to company-sponsored events, it is in your best interest
to attend and behave in a professional manner. If you choose to go out after work with
other interns or full-time staff, use discretion and common sense.
Display a positive attitude. You could be asked to complete a task you do not like.
Avoid expressing your frustration, speaking negatively about other employees, or
bragging about your weekend activities. You may be rewarded for your positive
attitude with more responsibility.
Wear professional attire. Dressing for the culture where you work sends a strong
and appropriate message of respect to the position and organization. Check with your
supervisor before your first day about dress codes and dress accordingly.
KEY POINTS






Maintain an open channel of communication with formal and informal
meetings
Keep busy and directed towards your learning objectives
Ask for opportunities to increase responsibility
Build your professionalism by developing human relations skills, decisionmaking abilities and managing office politics
Look for role models and a possible mentor
Develop connections to support future networking opportunities
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Conclusion
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation congratulates you on
taking a positive step for your future by participating in an internship. By
utilizing this guide you have the basic fundamentals for getting the most
out of your experience. Please reach out to our office if we can assist you
through this process.
Disclaimer
Students are responsible for finding their own internships, but the School of Business and our partners at Career
Services are here to serve as a source of information on how to find and secure an internship.
The School of Business and Career Services make no guarantee about internship positions and are not responsible
for safety, wages, working conditions or other characteristics of employment. It is the obligation of each individual
job seeker to research the integrity of the organization(s) to which he/she is applying and confirm the specific
information pertaining to the internship posting. Internship seekers should exercise due diligence and use caution
when applying for or accepting any position. This form does not ensure internship placement, but instead provides
resources and strategies for locating internships.
Resources:
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Student Internship Guide
www.uncw.edu/career
National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
62 Highland Avenue
Bethlehem, PA 18017-9085
800.544.5272
www.naceweb.org
Cooperative Education and Internship Association (CEIA)
16 Santa Ana Place
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
800.824.0449
www.ceiainc.org
National Society for Experiential Education (NSEE)
515 King Street, Suite 420
Alexandria, VA 22314
703.706.9552
www.nsee.org
Weighart, Scott, Exceeding Expectations, Mosaic Eye Publishing, 2006
16 Crowninshield Road
Brookline, MA 02446
617.566.1574
www.mosaiceyepublishing.com
Bottner, Richard, Intern Bridge Inc. Total Internship Management
136R Main Street, Suite 3
Acton, MA 01720
800.531.6091
www.internbridge.com
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Frequently Asked Questions About An Internship
QUESTION?
How long is the
experience?
Can I take classes while
participating in an
internship?
QUESTION?
CREDIT INTERNSHIP
BUS 500: Business
Internship requires 320
hours of internship
experience. Generally, most
students complete this in
about 12 to 14 weeks or the
length of the semester.
Yes, but not more than 9
hours total. You will not be
taking more than 6 credit
hours of coursework over
and above the 3 credit
hours for BUS 500 during
the semester.
CREDIT INTERNSHIP
NON-CREDIT INTERNSHIP
The length of an experience
may vary. Generally, the
experience will last several
months and is decided upon
by the supervisor and
intern.
Yes. Non-credit internships
can be done concurrently
during the semester or the
summer while you are
taking classes. However,
know your limitation on the
amount of hours you should
take to be successful
academically and in the
internship.
NON-CREDIT INTERNSHIP
Will I get academic credit? Yes.
Will this experience be
Yes. A Pass/Fail will be
documented on my
listed on your transcript.
transcript?
No.
No. The experience can be
listed on your résumé.
When do I begin the
application process?
It is recommended that you
give yourself at least six
months of preparation time.
Summer internships are
more competitive, and
application deadlines may
be as early as October.
It is recommended that you
give yourself at least six
months of preparation time.
Summer internships are
more competitive, and
application deadlines may
be as early as October.
Do I have to speak to
someone at Ole Miss in
order to participate?
Yes. You should speak with
someone regarding
eligibility requirements for
BUS 500 BEFORE beginning
the search. (See syllabus
and requirements on page
38-43).
No. It is recommended that
you schedule a meeting
with a staff member of the
Office of Undergraduate
Career Preparation about
making the most of the
opportunity.
Do I need to complete
paperwork for Ole Miss?
Yes. You will need to
complete internship forms
(See syllabus and
requirements on page 3843).
No. Some employers may
have forms for you or the
university to sign.
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Frequently Asked Questions About An Internship
Is there a fee for me to
participate?
Yes. BUS 500 is the cost of 3
credit hours of tuition.
No. Non-credit internships
incur no fees as there is no
academic credit.
May I participate in more
than one?
May I participate in an
opportunity outside the
US?
Yes. BUS 500 may be
repeated once.
Yes. Plan a year in advance
if you plan an internship
abroad
Yes.
Yes. Plan a year in advance
if you plan an internship
abroad
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Academic Credit Internship
BUS 500 BUSINESS INTERNSHIP
COURSE SYLLABUS
Professor:
Office / Phone:
Email:
Dr. Danielle Ammeter, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs
and
Instructional Assistant Professor of Management, School of Business
Administration
253 Holman Hall / (662) 915-1987 (voice) / (662) 915-5821 (fax)
[email protected]
OVERVIEW
The BUS 500 Business Internship course is a three (3) credit hour Z-graded (Pass/Fail)
course that is open to business students of junior or senior standing or to MBA students.
Business field work eight to ten weeks of full-time employment is usually undertaken to
obtain the required 320 hours of internship experience. MBA students may not use this
course to satisfy either a core or elective requirement. Non-business students may qualify
for this course as well - please contact Dr. Ammeter for more information.
REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY FOR AN INTERNSHIP (NO GUARANTEE YOU WILL BE
ADMITTED)
You can receive BUS 500 credit for an internship if:
6. You will be working at the internship at least 320 hours during the semester.
7. You have Junior or Senior standing.1
8. You have a GPA of 2.5 or greater.2
9. You will not be taking more than 6 credit hours of coursework over and above the 3
credit hours for BUS 500 during the semester.
10. You apply to register for the BUS 500 course prior to starting your internship and
pay the tuition for this course.
1
If you are not yet a Junior, your application will be considered if you attach a formal letter detailing how your
prior work experiences (duties, responsibilities, and skills) and specific courses have prepared you for this
internship, in addition to your Contract and Request for Enrollment.
2 If your GPA is below 2.5 and you are in good academic standing, your application will be considered if you
attach additional documents along with your Contract and Request for Enrollment that include:
(1) A formal letter that includes a description of your prior work experiences (duties, responsibilities,
and skills) and how they have prepared you for this internship, as well as a description of the
courses you have taken and why your performance in these courses is more relevant to this
internship than your overall GPA,
(2) a letter of reference from a professor in your major program that describes how your performance
in your major qualifies you for this internship, and
(3) your resume.
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To apply for the BUS 500 Internship Course, please complete and send the forms at the
end of this document to Dr. Danielle Ammeter in 253 Holman or via fax to (662) 915-5821.
These forms are due prior to the first day of the semester of your internship or the first
day of your internship, whichever comes first.
REQUIREMENTS TO COMPLETE THE INTERNSHIP
To successfully complete the BUS 500 Business Internship course, you need to hand in these
items no later than one week following the end of your internship semester. Upload
these in a set of Microsoft Word Documents via Blackboard.
1. A one-page summary (Name, Major, Company, Job title/Department, 3 or 4
things you did).
2. A 16-20 page paper (Times New Roman 12 point font or equivalent, doublespaced, 1-inch margins) analyzing your employer and your activities.
3. Your Daily Diary of internship activities and reflection.
4. At least one picture of you at your internship, preferably with your
internship organization’s logo or something similarly recognizable in the
picture. Pictures should be high-resolution and sent in the format that they
were taken (e.g., .jpg, .png).
THE INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE
While the faculty and staff may help you with student placement, you are the one person who
can make the internship a complete success. Ask your job supervisor to provide you with a
variety of experiences. Be proactive - ask for special projects, meetings to attend, and any
other tasks that will broaden your understanding of your employing firm and the industry.
Not only will what you hand in for this course be better, but you will gain valuable experience
that will be recognized when you enter the job market.
If you would like help identifying possible internship opportunities, please contact Meg
Barnes at [email protected] or Wesley Dickens at [email protected] at the
School of Business Administration. We do not have a strict set of requirements regarding
your duties during the internship - we mainly want to be sure that you are doing the things
that would be typical of someone in a regular position in that organization (ideally you would
do a variety of tasks).
THE DAILY DIARY
Form of the Daily Diary
You should keep a daily written record of your on-the-job activities. Although this diary
primarily is to help you in preparing your paper, you must submit it to the instructor. The
diary may be hand-written or typed. You may submit it in a Word document, a bound
notebook, or on loose-leaf paper, but be sure the dates of entry are kept in progressive
order.
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Daily Entries
Entries in your diary should focus on your major activities. Please do not record every
minor detail of your job activities. On days when you're performing routine activities - e.g.,
answering phones, filing, or typing - you may enter only a sentence or two. Entries should
be more detailed for days when you are performing special projects, such as preparing a
proposal, analyzing a project, or calling on a client.
In addition to the activities performed, you will want to write your thoughts and reflections.
For example…How did things go? How did you feel at the end of the day – energized,
depleted, proud, confused, etc.? How could you do things differently or better? What was
the best part of the day? The worst? What are you looking forward to tomorrow? What did
you learn? How can you apply that learning in the future?
THE PAPER
Form of the Paper. Your paper is based upon your work experience. The paper should be
between 16-20 pages in length (Times New Roman 12 point font or equivalent, doublespaced, 1-inch margins).
Structure and Content of the Paper. As with any paper, you should write a good story. Here
are some things to consider including in your paper:
1. Tell me about the employing firm, including its corporate structure, its
strategic plan and prospects for the future, and your assessment of the firm's
future growth prospects.
2. Describe your internship experience, especially emphasizing important
experiences, such as special projects you handled.
3. What were your responsibilities and how did they vary from what you
expected?
4. What contributions were you able to make to the firm during your
internship?
5. How might the internship be improved in the future?
6. Would you recommend that future students be placed with this firm as
interns?
7. Discuss your view of career opportunities at the firm, e.g., which positions
may fit you the best, and why. Be honest and critical.
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BUS 500 BUSINESS INTERNSHIP
COURSE CONTRACT
Please complete this Course Contract and the Request for Enrollment and submit it
to Dr. Danielle Ammeter by faxing it to (662) 915-5821, by scanning and emailing it
to [email protected], or by dropping it off at the Business School Dean’s
Office in 253 Holman.
Student First Name: ___________________________
Last Name: ___________________________
Student ID Number: ___________________________
READ THE FOLLOWING, CONFIRM BY CHECKING EACH BOX, AND SIGN BEFORE CONTINUING
I have read the BUS 500 Internship Syllabus document and understand that I must
do the following to receive consideration for enrollment in this course for credit:
□ I have submitted this application prior to the beginning of my internship.
□ I will be working a minimum of 320 hours at the internship during the
semester (or equivalent 15 week period) and have provided dates and
estimated weekly hours to support this.
□ I have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and am a student with Junior or Senior
standing. If my GPA is below this level (and I am in good academic standing)
or I am not yet a Junior, I have attached the additional documentation as is
described in the syllabus.
□ I will not enroll in greater than 9 credit hours during the semester that I am
interning (this includes the 3 credit hours for BUS 500).
□ I understand that the BUS 500 Business Internship is a 3 credit hour course
and I will be responsible to pay tuition for this course in the semester that
the internship work is performed. Any questions regarding payment of this
tuition should be directed to the Bursar’s office at (800) 891-4596.
During my internship:
□ I will make daily entries in my dairy (preferably at the very end of the day).
□ I will check my @go.olemiss.edu email daily.
After completing my internship:
□ I will hand in the required log, paper, picture, and summary by the due date
as indicated earlier in this syllabus.
□ I understand that my job supervisor may be contacted for feedback regarding
my performance on the job and this information will be considered in
determining my final grade for this course.
____________________________________________
___ ___ /___ ___ / ___ ___ (MM/DD/YY)
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BUS 500 BUSINESS INTERNSHIP
REQUEST FOR ENROLLMENT
PLEASE FILL OUT THIS FORM AS COMPLETELY AS YOU CAN (PRINT LEGIBLY)
1. Student First Name: ___________________________
2. Last Name: _______________________
3. Student ID Number: _______________________
4. Semester that Internship will be completed (please check one):
_____ Summer 20XX _____ Fall 20XX _____ Spring 20XX
5. Major: ______________________________________________________________________
6. Hours in addition to BUS 500 that you will be registering for in your internship
semester (Note: this must not be more than 6 credit hours in addition to BUS
500): ___________________ hours
7. Hours remaining for graduation at end of the current semester: _____________hours
8. Email: [email protected] (we must use your official Ole
Miss email address)
9. Your Contact Phone Number: (___ ___ ___) ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___
10. Your Contact Mailing Address:
________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
11. Employer (Company Name):
____________________________________________________________________
12. Employer's Address:
_______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
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13. Name of Your Supervisor:
_____________________________________________________
14. Supervisor's Email Address:
___________________________________________________
15. Supervisor's Voice Phone number and FAX # (if available):
Voice: (___ ___ ___) ___ ___ ___ - ___ ___ ___ ___
Fax: (___ ___ ___) ___ ___ ___ - ___ __ ___ ___
16. Your Hourly Compensation (if applicable):
___________________________________________________
17. Starting Date (be specific):
___ ___ /___ ___ / ___ ___ (MM/DD/YY)
18. Ending Date (be specific):
___ ___ /___ ___ / ___ ___ (MM/DD/YY)
We calculate total # days based on non-holiday working days
between your starting and ending date.
19. Hours Per Week you will be working (be specific):
FOR OFFICE USE
ONLY
Total # days worked:
__________
X
Hours per day
worked: __________
=
_______ hours per week (Maximum = 40 hours per week)
20. Describe your job duties in this internship:
Total # hours
worked: __________
(must equal 320
hours or more)
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
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Contact Information
The Office of Undergraduate Career Preparation
G6 & G7 Holman Hall
University, MS 38677
Director: Meg Barnes, [email protected], Phone: 662-915-2406
Coordinator: Wesley Dickens, [email protected], Phone: 662-915-6546
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