The University of West Alabama

College of Business

Frequently Asked Questions


Who is responsible for identifying the job site?
The student has the ultimate responsibility.

Where will the intern work assignments be located? The majority of the job sites are located within the service area of the University but students have, on occasion, worked outside of the state.

After I have located a job site where I can intern, what's the next step? Set up a meeting with your advisor or the Chair of your department to get the site and the internship approved.

Do I stay with the same employer for the entire internship? Yes

How much will I earn? Each work site is different. Some interns work for free in order to have the opportunity to earn valued work experience. Occasionally the work site may pay the intern. Interns on occasion have been compensated for travel and/or meals. The majority of interns are not paid. Internships are designed to emphasize academic and professional experiences, not financial benefit.

Am I responsible for my own housing and transportation when working as an intern? Yes.

Do I receive any special recognition for completing the intern program? Yes. Your work experience is a permanent part of your transcript, and can be reported on your resume.

Will I earn academic credit for working as an intern? Yes. One course worth.

Will the successful completion of the internship count toward graduation requirements? Yes.

How will my final grade be determined? The final grade will be assigned by the Departmental Coordinator (who is usually your advisor) in consultation with your one-the-job Site Supervisor. The Supervisor completes a Performance Appraisal Report. The student completes weekly activity sheets and turns in a formal written report. The two reports and the activity sheets will determine the final grade.

Do all intern students follow the same work curriculum? No. It depends on your major and the type of work experience designed to complement your degree.

What will the intern opportunity do for me? Help you more clearly define career goals, develop a more realistic view of business/industry job choices, and allow you to move more easily from the school world to the work world.

Will the internship delay my graduation? Graduation typically will not be delayed. However, if this should be the case, the benefits you receive from the internship will far outweigh any short delay.

Will I be considered a full-time student during the internship? It will depend on your course load.

Can I drop out of the internship program at any time? Students should not enter the program unless they plan on finishing all scheduled work. Intern withdrawal rules are the same for any other UWA course.

Am I obligated to work for my intern employer after graduation? No. Furthermore, the intern employer is not obligated to offer you permanent employment.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The University of West Alabama
Home Email