Frequently asked questions

The internship is where the rubber meets the road. It's where you can finally apply all the theory you've learned in the classroom to a real-life work setting. You'll discover skills and abilities you didn't know you had, open doors to exciting possibilities, and learn more about how to succeed in a professional environment.

LLC internships are structured, supervised work/learn experiences within an approved government office, non-profit organization, or business. As an intern, you are involved in a unique three way partnership that includes you, the internship supervisor and the LLC program director.

The following points address some frequently asked questions about the internships:

1. Will I be paid or earn academic credit?
   
   Internships are unpaid, but you do earn six semester hours of academic credits.
2. What kind of work will I be doing?
   
   Because academic credit is involved, the internship must be of a substantive and academically relevant nature. While the specific nature of tasks and final product will differ between offices, work should provide learning opportunities and challenge you to think. Administrative and clerical work is part of every job (from corporate CEO or political Chief of Staff down), but such tasks should not be a substantial component of your daily work.
3. How many hours will I work?
   
   You must work at least 200 hours in a 12 week semester beginning either in early September or early January. Normally you will work from 1 to 5 pm each weekday, although occasionally, your supervisor may ask you to work at other times. The supervisor is asked to remember, however, that along with the internship, you are also balancing a challenging class load.
4. What can I tell others about my internship?
   
   In allowing a student intern into their offices, supervisors agree to grant a stranger access to their physical space, equipment, files, and most importantly to the corporate culture of the organization. It is essential that you show discretion and high regard for confidentiality in your dealings with individuals outside the office. In preparing your internship journal, share enough context with the program director that he can fully assess your learning experience, but dont divulge sensitive details.