Develop an Internship

FAQ

Why Should I Hire an Intern?

• Internships help you sample the extraordinary talent at USD and create a pipeline of future employees.
• Interns contribute to your company's mission and bring a fresh perspective to the organization.
• You will help students gain practical experience and implement a learning agreement that maximizes their professional growth.

How Do I Hire an Intern?

The Academic and Career Planning Center offers services to employers as you develop and promote your internship. We can help you:

• Identify a professional activity within your organization that a student can assist with
• Develop the internship position description
• Advertise the position and collect students' resumes
• Collect applications from the students you wish to interview
• Provide space on-campus for you to interview students
• Post a Job or Internship

How Many Hours per Week Does an Intern Work?

• Work schedules are varied and tend to be flexible.
• Typically, students work ten to twenty hours per week during the academic year. Some may work full-time if the internship is completed during the summer.

What is Appropriate Compensation?

• Compensation varies widely and is dependent on the organization's needs, budget and position description. USD recommends a pro-rated salary for the intern comparable to an entry level employee at your organization. A stipend is also an acceptable form of payment.
• Organizations that cannot afford to pay a salary may consider reimbursing the student for transportation or housing.
• Legal Considerations About Intern Compensation

Does USD Offer Any Services to Employers to Help Organizations Pay Interns?

• USD does not have a service to subsidize student intern wages.
• The SD Department of Labor offers funding to qualified employers through Dakota Seeds.

What Can I Do to Maximize the Professional Growth of My Interns?

• Plan a challenging work experience and assign projects that relate to their studies. Routine office work should not be the primary focus of the experience.
• Develop a detailed position description that outlines the student's expectations and assignments.
• Orient, train and supervise the student.
• Provide a tour of the facility and information on company procedures.
• Meet regularly, especially in the beginning.
• Provide broad exposure to the organization, including staff meetings and informational interviews with key staff members.
• Provide ongoing feedback about his or her performance.