Community Internship Program Application Tips and Guidelines
For Internships Without a Formal Application Process
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Making the Initial Contact – A Letter of Inquiry
- Introduce yourself and your year and major, what type of experience you are looking for
- Ask about the availability of fieldwork.
- Explain that you are required to do an internship 10-12 hours/week with regular supervision and feedback.
- Inquire about an interview to find out more about the placement.
- 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.
- Consider the type of work you are agreeing to do, and who will be your supervisor.
- 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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