Written by: Alek Culpepper & Alyssa Sterkel
The Office of Career Development is seeing many changes in its internship program both internally and externally.
One of the most recent opportunities is the addition of a non for credit international program. This program was established for international students because they don’t have many opportunities off campus and this program allows them to intern off campus for credit.
“I saw that international students didn’t have many opportunities off campus, which is why I created the program. I am very proud of this. I created it and I really hope Farquhar jumps on board,” said Diane Klein, Assistant Director of Internships in the Office of Career Development.
The H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship is the only college with the program, but Klein hopes the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences will adopt it since it helps international students obtain great opportunities.
Another change happening in the Office of Career Development is the amount of students inquiring about internships.
“I have seen much more traffic flow in our offices. I feel that everything is word of mouth — that students are paying more attention and realizing the importance of internships,” said Klein.
Klein believes one reason for this influx is that faculty are encouraging their students to seek out internships.
“I have noticed more of a push among faculty members on campus, they are the voice and they offer a lot of useful information and contacts that could pertain to a student’s field,” said Klein.
Students are also learning that they must make themselves stand out, and internships can make that happen, said Klein.
Waiting until the last minute, though, to put internship experience on your resume is not advised by Klein. She said students should schedule an appointment a semester ahead to begin the search process for that perfect internship. Students should also have an idea of what they want before they make an appointment. Klein said students should figure out what they’re interested in, do research, find companies that interest them and become knowledgeable.
“We, here in the office, can show you the light, but you must kick down the door,” said Klein.
If students aren’t ready to schedule an appointment, they can attend Employer Information Sessions which are every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Klein said different companies come to campus to talk about their career field and the opportunities they offer. These sessions give students a chance to network and meet professionals in various fields.
For more information on these sessions, visit www.nova.edu/career for more details.
