What is the purpose of the Externship Program?
- The Externship Program is designed to give UCF students the opportunity to explore a specific career field while networking with professionals within the community.
What is an externship?
- An externship is a one-day to week-long, voluntary job shadowing experience. This experience gives students an opportunity to experience firsthand what it is like to be a professional in a career they are interested in pursuing. Students spend time observing and often working with employers in order to gain some insight on the real world aspects of their future careers.
What can I expect from an externship?
- To gain experience and knowledge through actual hands on experiences and/or by simply observing the host employer(s) facilitate meetings, training sessions, etc.
Are students required to attend one of the orientation session?
- Yes, participating students must attend one of the mandatory orientation sessions in order to participate in the Externship program. Students who do not attend a session or make prior arrangements may forfeit their place within the program. .
How can an externship benefit me?
- An externship can help you explore a career field and experience the work environment firsthand, learn how to apply your academic major through discussions with a professional who has similar academic background, assess your "fit" with a particular entry-level position or organization, make career connections, and encounter networking opportunities.
How many hours will I be expected to commit?
- The duration of the externship will depend upon the availability of the host employer as well as that of the student. We strongly recommend student participants commit to working between 8 to 40 hours during their externship experience.
What type of experience and skills must I have to particpate in the Externship Program?
- The Externship Program is for all students attending the University of Central Florida.
Will I receive payment or academic credit for the externship?
- Students do not receive academic credit or pay for externships and they are responsible for their own expenses and transportation.
How are schedules coordinated for the externship?
- After a student is accepted for an externship he/she is responsible for contacting the host employer to establish the length of the externship and to discuss the company‘s policies and procedures.
How do I apply for the Externshp Program?
- To apply for the Externship Program, please complete the online application.
When is the deadline to apply for the Externship Program?
How does the selection process work?
- A Career Services staff member will forward your application to host employers for review. Once a host employer has selected you for an externship we will contact you with their name, number, and location. It will be your responsibility to follow up with the host employer to receive specific instructions regarding the length of the externship, location, work schedule, company policies and procedures, etc.
