MBS Internships
Steps to Secure an Internship
Step 1: Immerse
A critical step to securing an internship in your field of interest is to begin engaging on-campus and in your community. This will present you with opportunities to enhance your network while gaining experience and developing leadership skills. Employers love interviewing students who have taken steps to engage in extracurricular activities!
Goal: Get involved and gain experiences to include in your resume.
Step 2: Explore
Before beginning your internship search, it is advised to devote time to assessing your skills and interests as well as exploring industries, companies, career paths, and positions. We encourage you to explore by attending internship and career-related events here at the MBS and the University of Maine. You may also wish to participate in Informational Interviews with professionals who work in a field you’re interested in. LinkedIn is also a great tool to network and explore!
Goal: Discover the type of career you’re interested in and why!
Step 3: Equip
To secure an internship, you need to familiarize yourself with the application process and the materials you need to prepare! You’ll also want to know where to look for internships and the best practices to secure them. Be sure to review your social media and online presence and make any adjustments to enhance your personal brand.
Goal: Transform your application materials and online presence!
Step 4: Apply
Now that you’ve prepared for your search, it’s time to officially begin your search and the application process. Once you’ve determined an anticipated start date, budget approximately 4-6 months for the application process. After identifying internships you’re interested in, be sure to tailor your resume and cover letters to the job description. This is where you should also focus on your professional communication and interview skills. You may also find yourself in a position where you’ve received multiple offers, which can be a challenging situation to navigate. We’re here to support you, so please reach out!
Goal: Navigate the application and interview process to secure an internship in a field of your interest.
Step 5: Secure
Now that you’ve received an internship offer or multiple offers, you’ll need to make the decision to accept or reject the opportunity. Once you’ve considered your options and made a decision, it’s likely you’ll be asked to sign an official offer letter. As soon as you’ve accepted an offer, you can consider the internship secured! If you decide to reject any offers, it’s a best practice to notify the employer of your decision and express gratitude for their consideration.
Goal: Make a decision to accept and/or reject internship offer/s.
Step 6: Prepare
As you prepare for your internship experience, it’s important to maintain communication with your internship host. Consider the attire, equipment, and accessories you may need to be successful at your internship. Additionally, report your internship to the internship coordinator and consider enrolling in BUA 396, the internship course for 0-6 credit.
Goal: Acquire the information and materials required to begin your internship and report your internship to the Internship Coordinator.
Resources
General Internship/Job Boards
Sport Internship/Job Board
Events
Internship Stories
FAQ
What is an internship?
An internship is a form of experiential education that integrates knowledge and theory learned in the classroom, with practical application and skill development in a professional, work setting. Students may earn academic credit, as determined by an educational institution, or there is another connection to a degree-granting educational institution. (CEIA Definition)
What are the benefits of an internship?
- Gain valuable work experience
- Enhance competitiveness
- Receive a job offer
- Develop and enhance skills
- Apply knowledge gained from coursework to real-life situations
- Explore careers and industries
- Expand professional network
- Earn income and academic credit
When should I start looking for an internship?
It is never too late to begin searching for an internship. As a rule of thumb, it is wise to begin searching 3-5 months before you plan to begin the internship.
*Accounting students should begin applying in the Fall semester.
Are all internships paid?
Most internships for business students are paid at a competitive rate. Although, unpaid internships exist.
Can I earn academic credit for an internship?
Yes. MBS students can earn between 0-6 credits for an internship. On average, 60 hours equals one credit. Internship credits count as free elective credits, so make sure to connect with your academic advisor or the internship coordinator before pursuing an internship for credit.
*MBA students are eligible to earn between 1-3 elective credits for an internship.
Can I earn internship credit if I’m not a MBS student but am pursuing a business minor?
Yes. The internship coordinator will need to approve the internship in order to earn credit. To earn credit, the position must be associated with your minor and you must have available free elective credits.
As an international student, may I participate in an internship?
Yes. International students can participate in internships, both on and off campus.
Can my current job be counted as an internship?
It is possible, however, the internship coordinator will have to approve it before you can be enrolled to earn credit.
MBS Career Readiness and
Professional Development Videos
Internship Courses
Success in Internships
In this course, you will work closely with the MBS Internship Coordinator to identify your early career goals and get on track to secure a meaningful internship in your field of interest. Students in the course will learn about internships and how they can use them to gain professional experience.
Fall 2022
1 Credit
Wednesday, 11:00-11:50am
Doing Business in Healthcare
In partnership with Northern Light Health, this experiential learning-based course is designed to engage MBS students in a rotation of the business areas of the Healthcare industry.
Fall 2022
3 Credits
Wednesday, 2:30-5:20pm
Business Internship
BUA 396 is designed to support MBS interns over the course of their internship. MBS student who have secured an internship experience may earn academic credit.
Fall, Spring, Summer
0-6 Credits
60 Hours/Credit
2.0 Minimum GPA
Business Internship
MBA 695 is designed to support MBA interns over the course of their internships. MBA students have secured an internship experience may earn academic credit.
Fall, Spring, Summer
1-3 Elective Credits
60 Hours/Credit
3.0 Minimum GPA