Community Internship Program Application Tips and Guidelines

For Internships Without a Formal Application Process

Making the Initial Contact – A Letter of Inquiry

  1. Introduce yourself and your year and major, what type of experience you are looking for
  2. Ask about the availability of fieldwork.
  3. Explain that you are required to do an internship 10-12 hours/week with regular supervision and feedback.
  4. Inquire about an interview to find out more about the placement.
  5. Do not accept an internship unless you think that the site is a good match for you and that you will feel comfortable at the site.
  6. Consider the type of work you are agreeing to do, and who will be your supervisor.
  7. Please note that if you leave a message at a site and you do not hear back, you should reach out and initiate contact again after three full business days have passed. Keep a record of who you contact and when.  Your follow-up contact should include a phone call, followed by an email if you end up leaving a message.

During the Interview

  • Please remember to wear appropriate attire, even for a zoom interview, and appear professional.
  • Make sure that your surroundings are clean and professional in appearance. Do not conduct your interview from your bed!
  • Ask about parking, transportation costs and other logistical information – particularly anything that will require out-of-pocket expenses.
  • At the time of the interview it is the your responsibility to negotiate with the supervisor the exact nature of your responsibilities during your 10-12 hours at the internship site. You are required to obtain a commitment from them which includes the following:
    • They are willing to provide you with an internship placement for 10-12 hours per week (a minimum of 120 total) throughout the semester, beginning no later than the second week of classes.
    • They will provide you with an orientation opportunity (informal or formal).
    • They will provide you with regular supervision at least every other week and will ensure adequate supervision of your activities. Supervision can be done in groups.
    • They will provide completed and signed documentation to you and/or the QU internship program including: a signed learning agreement, COVID-19 protocols (if applicable), a written final evaluation, and verification of hours.
    • They will be available to meet with the Quinnipiac SCJA internship coordinator if requested.
    • They will adhere to state COVID-19 guidelines.
    • They will ensure that you obtain an educational experience (i.e., that you won’t be only photocopying or sitting around with nothing to do).

*****Send a thank you letter after your interview*****

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