Internships

An internship is a form of experiential learning that combines the knowledge you learn in the classroom with the experience you gain in a professional setting. Internships not only provide you with practical experience, but also with new networking opportunities and potential future employment.

The internship brings together three key players – the employer, the student intern, and State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF) and are a valuable experience for the entire community.

Students

What internships are available for students?

Securing an internship placement is the responsibility of the student. Start networking and reaching out to companies at least one semester before you plan to intern. Many employers request a resume as part of the internship process.

Consider including:

• courses completed that may relate to the internship
• previous work experience
• any honors or awards received.

Am I eligible to complete an internship?

Baccalaureate Capstone Internship

• Declared a program of study
• Achieved a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0
• Successfully completed all program core courses
• Obtained permission from program manager/director

Associate in Arts Internship

• Declared a specific area of study
• Successfully completed a minimum of 12 credit hours at SCF
• Achieved a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.5

Associate in Science Capstone Internship

• Declared a program of study
• Achieved a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0
• Successfully completed all program core courses

What do students need to do to apply for an internship?

Before starting your Internship

• Schedule an appointment with your Success Coach early in the semester prior to starting your internship to discuss the process and start completing the Internship Application materials.

• Complete the following documents and send them to Internships@scf.edu :

• WBL Training Agreement & Plan with your instructor and employer
• Contact the employer to send a copy of their “Certificate of Insurance”

During your internship

Complete the following documents during your internship

• WBL Work Log – Record hours and activities
• WBL Student Evaluation at the end of the semester
• WBL Student Reflection at the end of the semester
  
  Note: Specific programs may have additional forms that are required. Please check with the program manager/director for further clarification.

Student Questions

Email questions to Internships@SCF.edu 

Employers

As an internship employer, you have the opportunity to provide exposure, training, and hands-on work experience within a field related to the programs offered at State College of Florida including Associate in Science (A.S.) Certificates, Degrees and Baccalaureate Programs.

How do I get my internship information to SCF students?

Employers are able to post job and internships opportunities on Handshake. Complete the Employer Registration information and submit for review. Once you receive email approval, you will be able to post openings on the site.

What paperwork is needed from an employer before the internship begins?

Before a student is eligible to start their internship experience, the following documents must be completed by the employer and sent to: Internships@scf.edu or the student’s instructor.

• Employers please send a copy of your Certificate of Insurance
• In conjunction with the student and instructor, the WBL Training Agreement & Plan
• Please read the WBL Employer Handbook for additional Internship guidance.
• At the end of the internship, please complete the WBL Employer Evaluation and
• WBL Employability Skills Assessment

Considering offering an unpaid internship?

We want to be sure you are aware of how the Fair Labor Standards Act may affect you.  To avoid legal action, a for-profit employer may “hire” an unpaid intern only when the intern is the “primary beneficiary” of the position.  An easy test is to ask yourself “Who is benefiting the most from the internship – the intern or my organization?” The “primary beneficiary” can be determined by six non-exhaustive criteria.  Please be sure to refer to the US Department of Labor Fact Sheet below.

Review the US Department of Labor Fact Sheet to see if your opportunity passes the test for unpaid status.

For additional information regarding unpaid interns please review – Jackson/Lewis Primary Beneficiary Test

Employer Questions

If you have questions or want additional information, please contact: Internships@SCF.edu