What kind of internship or externship should I do?
Well, that depends. If you are choosing a paid internship or externship as part of your goal to operate a wedding/event planning business or if you are looking for job placement, there will be certain requirements you will need to meet regarding the internship and externship site as well as the types of tasks you will do as an intern or extern. To get a better understanding of what those requirements might be, speak with your career counselor.
If you are considering a non-paid internship or externship, it's entirely up to you. First, determine why you want to do the internship or externship:
- To test your interest in different career fields?
- To gain experience in the field in which you are interested?
- To develop professional connections?
Your reasons for participating in a non-paid intern or externship will help determine the kinds of intern and externships you may select. A good place to begin this conversation is with a career counselor. To make an appointment with a career counselor, call 888-221-9988 x.9001.
How many hours a semester do I need to commit to an internship and externship?
The number of hours you will need to complete on-site at your internship or externship will vary. If your internship or externship is paid, the number of hours you will depend on how long it takes you to meet the requirements of the program. Most internships and externships are approximately six months and many will vary based on your site manager and requirements. Consult with your career counselor to confirm what will be expected of you. Additionally, the program site itself may require a minimum number of hours per week as well.
If your program is non-paid, the number of hours you will need to complete on site at your internship or externship will vary depending upon how many hours you have available and how many hours may be required by the site. You may be expected to put in as few as 8 hours per week, as many as 15 or more, or something in between.
When should I do an internship or externship?
There are lots of things to take into consideration as you decide when to do your internship or externship. If you are a new student, you are required to complete the certification course. However, many students participate in hands-on experience during their certification training. This hands-on training/experience is not considered an internship or externship. It is simply part of LWPI's training program; however it provides many of the same benefits.
How do I get an internship or externship?
Securing an internship or externship requires an application process to gather the initial information on the type of experience you are looking to gain from your internship or externship experience. If you are requesting a custom program, you will need to be detailed in your application because you have to "select" the internship or externship position and the company/employer has to select you as their intern or extern of choice. However, there are many resources available at LWPI to help you along the way.
Some of these resources include:
- Listings available through the Career Development Center
- Contacts through faculty and the intern or externship department
- Networking with LWPI partnered vendors and venues
Other resources you may choose to tap include:
- Print and online job postings
- Networking with vendors within your community
If you are planning a custom internship or externship, it's a good idea to speak with your career services liaison about what you want to get out of the program and whether a particular site will provide that opportunity.
Submit your internship application or continue for more FAQs.
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