Frequently Asked Questions

General Internship Questions:

• Why should I consider doing an internship?
  Internships provide an opportunity for experimentation and exploration of academic and career interests. Experiencing a variety of work situations can help you make thoughtful, informed career choices. Through an internship, you can develop and enhance your skills, learn about the demands and rewards of a particular field, and bridge the gap between academic study and the world of work. An internship also provides valuable professional experience that can enhance your resume.



• When should I start looking for an internship?
  Internships may be undertaken successfully while you are in the early stages of career development. Here are some dates to keep in mind when considering summer and semester-based internships:
  
  For summer: November-March. While some programs have deadlines for summer programs as early as November, many organizations don't start taking applications until March. In general, the sooner you begin your search, the more opportunities you will have, especially if funding is a requirement for undertaking the internship you have identified.
  For spring semester: September-December
  For fall semester: April-August
  
  
• The internship I'm pursuing requires academic credit. Does Wellesley College award credit for internships? While Wellesley College does not award academic credit internships, the CWS can serve as a resource for students needing to meet that requirement. Contact Tere Ramos, Associate Director of Internships and Service Learning, for more information.
  
  
• I'm having trouble finding an internship. What can I do? Who can I contact?
  Make sure that you have read through all of the tips and suggestions for finding an internship on our Web site. If you are still having problems, feel free to schedule an appointment with Tere Ramos, Associate Director of Internships and Service Learning, or another CWS counselor, by calling 781.283.2352.



• I am having trouble in my internship. Who can I contact for support?
  First read through the common problems section of the Web site for suggestions on trouble-shooting typical internship conflicts. Additionally, the CWS internship staff is here all year to support students participating in internships all over the world. Even if you are not on a Wellesley College specific program, the Associate Director of Internships and Service Learning as well as the Director of Service and Stipend Programs, are here to support you. Please feel free to contact Tere Ramos or Melissa Hawkins directly to assist you with any problems.



• What forms do I have to fill out for my internship?
  If you have obtained an internship independent of a Wellesley College program, we have no forms that you are required to complete. However, we recommend that you fill out a learning contract with your supervisor so that you have set clear goals and projects for your internship. If you will be participating in a program sponsored by the college, please contact the specific program director for more information.