Communication Studies

Internships – FAQs

I’m interested in an internship; when is the best time to complete it for course credit?

Your senior year is the best time to enroll in CST412 Internship Studies for two reasons. First, by that time, you will have completed your CST core requirements and most of your CST elective courses. This will provide you a good foundation for understanding and relating your communication studies to your internship. Second, your internship will provide you good networking opportunities as you start interviewing for a professional position and help you boost your resume.

What is the goal of an internship?

The purpose of an internship is to understand and appreciate how the theory and research you studied in your CST classes applies and is operationalized in the professional world. An internship is not required as part of your CST major and, therefore, should only be considered if you have successfully completed coursework that prepares you for your interest area and applies directly to the coursework you have taken.

What is the first step I should take after I decide I’m ready to do an internship?

First, consider the area you’re interested in. Some things to consider:

• Do you want to work in a not for profit organization?
• Do you want to work in a for profit organization?
• What area will support your future professional goals – event planning, PR, human resources, social services, social media, etc?
• Have you completed your CST course work specific to the area of your intern interest and completed the coursework specific to the requirements of the internship?
• What hours do you realistically have available to do an internship (be sure to include travel time, holidays, and your course schedule)?
• For 3 s/h you will have to do 90 documented hours of work which is approximately 8-10 hours a week on site.
• For 6 s/h you will have to do 180 documented hours of work which is approximately 20 hours a week on site.

OK, I have answered all the above questions, do I have to find and make my own internship contacts or will UNCG provide this service?

It is your responsibility to find an organization for your internship.

What contacts are available to assist my search?

• Professional contacts – job fairs, networking contacts, informational interviews
• Personal contacts – friends, family, church, clubs, etc.
• UNCG Career Services – they have a listing of internship opportunities on Spartan Careers (https://csc.uncg.edu/students/)
• Professors may be able to provide you some leads
• You can research: Google “Internships Greensboro”
• You can make calls to organizations in your area you are interested in and ask if they would like an intern
• While ultimately finding an internship site is your own responsibility, here are some excellent opportunities!

How long does it generally take to find an internship?

It varies. However, finding the appropriate internship that matches your skills, your professional goals and completed coursework can take several months. Many internship sites require an interview process and samples of your work. You should approach an internship search as you would a professional position; it takes dedication and research, begin early.

If I already have a job, can I consider that for my internship?

No, you cannot receive course credit for current employment. Internships need to be outside your place of employment.

Can I receive intern hours for an internship I have completed in a previous semester?

No, an internship can only be taken during the semester in which you are registered for CST412. However, you may at any time do an internship for experience without receiving course credit.

If I have additional specific questions about internships, who can I contact?

You can contact the Internship Coordinator, Dr. Lind at kdlind@uncg.edu