Internships
Internship FAQs
Below are answers to some frequently asked questions about Elmhurst College's internship program. For more information, please contact the Office of Career Education.
How do I find out what internships are available?
There are many ways to find an internship. If you’re interested in an internship in a specific academic discipline, like biology, you can start by checking that department’s website or by contacting a faculty member. You can meet with a career advisor in the Office of Career Education, or browse the Career Resources Library at the CPE. Finally, some students design their own internships by contacting a business or organization directly.
How can I take on an internship when I already have a full schedule of classes?
If your internship applies to your major, chances are good you’ll be able to earn credit for it—so you can actually count your internship toward your courses for that term. But even if that’s not the case, most Elmhurst students discover that taking on an internship is well worth the additional demands it puts on your time.
What kind of work will I do as an intern?
The work you’ll do varies from one discipline to another, but all Elmhurst internships share one important feature: they involve substantive, real-world work, not paper pushing. Elmhurst interns make meaningful contributions to the organizations they work for.
How much time does an internship take?
Most interns work 14 to 20 hours a week over the course of a term. Summer and J-Term internships, however, can consist of full-time work.
Can I earn credit for my internship?
You may be able to earn credit for completing an internship. It depends on the nature of your internship and on the requirements of your major. For instance, a theology major would likely earn credit for a church-based internship, and an internship with the Ravinia Festival would probably result in credit for a music major.
How many times can I get credit for an internship?
There is no limit on the amount of internship credit you can receive.
Am I required to sign up for credit in order to do an internship?
No, you can do an internship simply for the experience.
I’ve applied for several internships, but I haven’t heard anything back. What do I do now?
Follow up is extremely important in the search for an internship. After you send your resume, follow up via telephone or e-mail to confirm receipt of your correspondence, express your interest in the position and ask when you should expect to receive a response.
Will I get paid for the work I do as an intern?
Many Elmhurst interns earn a salary or stipend for their work as interns; others don’t. It all depends on the firm you choose to work with. But whether you get paid or not, you’ll gain valuable experience that will have an impact on your future. Remember, in the eyes of an employer, practical experience is priceless.