Summer Internship Program Handbook for Mentors and Interns
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Table of Contents WELCOME LETTER INTRODUCTION IMPORTANT DATES INTERNSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS OVERVIEW FAQ’S FORMS
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DEAR WINDWARD NETWORK INTERNSHIP MENTORS AND INTERNS, Thank you for your interest in the Windward Network Summer Internship Program. Internships offered through the Windward Network provide meaningful summer experiences for current students (rising Juniors and Seniors) and college-age alumni in a variety of different fields beyond the classroom. Participants have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into their industries of interest, develop skills, cultivate professional connections, and strengthen their resumes, all while receiving academic credit. Any currently enrolled student who completes an internship organized through the Windward Network will receive course credit documented on their transcript. This course credit will be graded as Pass/Fail and in the amount of 0.5 credits, and will be awarded for the semester preceding the internship. For college-age students, they are responsible for coordinating course credit through their respective university. Prior to the beginning of the internship, I will work with interns and mentors to make sure that all necessary paperwork is completed. Additionally, I will share a learning objectives sheet for mentors and interns to complete together sometime during their first week on the job. Thank you for your participation in this program, and I look forward to working with you in the coming months. Best regards, Robin Pickett Director of Windward Network rpickett@windwardschool.org (213) 261-2098
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Intro. The purpose of this manual is to clarify the requirements of the internship and responsibilities of the parties who are involved. The internship is a three-way partnership with the students/ alumni who are interning, the employers providing the internship opportunities, and the Director of Windward Network.
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Important Dates JANUARY 14 Internship descriptions and applications available on Windward at Work
MARCH 15 Site Visits/Student Midpoint Check-in
Internship decisions published
March
January
February
FEBRUARY 1 Internship applications due
June - Aug
June First day of Internships
August - Summer Internship Completion - Internship Reflections Due
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The Internship Program Application and Placement Process The following covers how students and alumni apply for internships, how internship placements are made, the orientation process, and what is expected from the interns both during and after the completion of their internships.
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PREREQUISITES Students and alumni applying for an internship through the Windward Network must be rising Juniors/Seniors or be part of our college-age alumni community. Some internships have specific age requirements, which are noted in their description.
APPLYING FOR INTERNSHIPS Internship descriptions will become live on our online mentoring platform, Windward at Work, in January. An email will go out to students once the descriptions and applications are available. Students and alumni will have to submit an application for each internship they are applying for. Students may apply for up to three internships.
Applications are due no later than Friday, 2/1 at 3pm. Applicants are encouraged to give themselves plenty of time to complete and submit applications to avoid any technical difficulties. Applicants should keep a copy of responses submitted as well. Internships with firm dates that cannot be modified will be stated where applicable. One should not apply for an internship if they know they will be out of town or have other obligations.
APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS After the deadline, mentors will have time to review applications. Some mentors will conduct Skype and/ or in-person interviews. If an applicant is selected for an interview, the Director of Windward Network will be in contact to help coordinate specifics. 6
APPLICATION REVIEW PROCESS (CONT.) Most internship decisions will be made by March 15. If internship hosts are unable to make a decision by then, The Director of Windward Network will be in touch with applicants to let them know.
INTERNSHIP ORIENTATION There will be a mandatory orientation for interns in May. At that time we will go over dress code, expectations, dos and don’ts, etc. Students and alumni selected for internships will have to complete paperwork prior to their start date, which include a Liability Waiver, Code of Conduct, and desired Learning Outcomes. The Director of Windward Network will work with interns and mentors to make sure that they have everything necessary to ensure a successful summer!
INTERNSHIP SITE VISITS The Director of Windward Network will be visiting interns and mentors throughout the course of the summer to check in, and often will be accompanied by someone from Communications to take pictures. We also encourage interns and mentors to reach out to us with any questions/concerns throughout the summer.
INTERNSHIP REFLECTIONS At the end of the internship, all students and alumni are required to submit a written reflection of their experience in order to receive course credit on their transcript.
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Internship Applicant FAQ’s The following section covers the most frequently asked questions from applicants, as well as tips for preparing for interviews and making the best possible impression.
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APPLYING Q: How many internships can I apply for? A: You can apply for up to 3 internships, but you must fill out a separate application for each one. Q: When are applications due? A: Applications are due no later than Friday, 2/1. Q: How do I apply? A: Log into your account on Windward at Work, and go to the Opportunities tab. If you have any problems accessing the platform, please contact Robin Pickett.
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Q: What if I hear that my friends are being interviewed, but I haven’t been contacted? A: Not all internships will require an interview. We encourage all internship mentors to interview candidates, but sometimes this is not possible. Q: When will I find out if I’ve been placed in an internship? A: We will do our best to notify applicants by 3/15. There will be some companies that, for various reasons, will not be able to make decisions by that date.
INTERVIEWING Q: If I get an interview, does that mean that I got the job/ internship?
Q: When is an appropriate time to arrive to the interview?
A: No. Landing an interview moves you a step closer towards getting your desired position, but it does not secure the position. The interview allows you and the organization to assess whether you are a good fit or not.
A: Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled interview – not earlier, and not later. If you arrive earlier than 15 minutes, find the entrance and hang out nearby until 15 minutes before your interview. If you are running late, call and inform the interviewer. (ex. Hello, this message is for Ms. Susan Jones. I have an interview scheduled with her today at 1:00 pm and wanted to call and let her know that I will be 10 minutes late. I hope that is okay and if not, I am happy to reschedule at her convenience.)
Q: How can I prepare for the interview? A: Research the company online, and prepare questions to ask. Practice interviewing with friends and family. Schedule a mock interview with Robin Pickett, Director of Windward Network. Pay attention to your body language, especially fidgeting hands and eye contact. Q: What should I wear to the interview? A: If your interview is in person, being overÂdressed is always better than being underÂdressed. Business formal is appropriate for most interviews, but if you are not sure, call the company and ask. (ex. Hello, I have an interview scheduled with Ms. Susan Jones on April 11th for the Social Media Intern position. May I know the suggested attire?)
Q: What do I do after the interview? A: Send the interviewer a thank you message within 24 hours. This can be via email or you can bring a thank you card to the interview and write one to leave with the front desk before you leave.
Q: What do I bring to the interview? A: Bring copies of your resume and references sheet, a plain notepad, a pen/pencil, and a list of questions to ask your interviewer.
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Forms The following forms are samples that interns, their parents (if under 18), and mentors will fill out before and after completion of internships.
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INTERNSHIP GOALS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES Internship Goals and Learning Outcomes PURPOSE OF THIS FORM
DIRECTIONS FOR INTERNS & MENTORS
To define the job responsibilities and set clear expectations between mentor and intern for the internship. This form should be completed the first week of the internship.
Please spend some time on this document together to clearly define roles, responsibilities, and goals.
INTERN RESPONSIBILITIES – List the roles, activities, and duties that the intern will be performing. 1. 2. 3. LEARNING GOALS – List the desired skills the intern desires to gain, and other learning goals. Examples: Learning to work effectively on a team, learning how to analyze a script, learning how to determine trends in the stock market. 1. 2. 3.
INTERN’S SIGNATURE:
DATE:
SUPERVISOR’S SIGNATURE:
DATE:
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WINDWARD NETWORK INTERNSHIP PROGRAM STUDENT & ALUMNI CODE OF CONDUCT An internship is a valuable opportunity to gain insight and knowledge related to a professional field that interests you. Before working with your internship host, inquire about their policies and expectations so you have a clear understanding of company standards and of how you can excel during this experience. In addition, we ask that you carefully review and agree to hold yourself to Windward’s expectations listed below:
STUDENT INTERN GUIDELINES • Consistently arrive to work on time. It is imperative that you are never late or absent without good reason or notification. • You must have your own transportation arranged. • You must make sure any required paperwork is completed and submitted to your internship host prior to your start date. • Listen closely to directions, take notes, ask questions if you are unclear about the task. • Take the initiative to learn new skills. • Manage your time effectively. • Maintain a positive attitude. • Dress in a clean, professional manner while at work.
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• Conduct yourself in a businesslike manner and ensure professionalism. • Be conscious of all policies and be respectful of the employer with whom you are interning. • Make every effort to plan academic, personal, and work schedules that do not conflict. • Homework, reading, and other personal work should not interfere with work hours. • Your cell phone should not be out while working—step outside if you need to make a personal call during a break. • Stay attentive during company meetings, and take notes so you can follow up with your supervisor with any questions. • Respond to emails/calls within 24 hours to the Employer and the Advancement Office to ensure proper communication. • At the end of your internship, complete and return required internship reflection to Advancement Office by the deadline supplied. • Your behavior is a reflection of Windward School, and more importantly, yourself. Hold yourself to a high standard, give 100% effort, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your Supervisor and/or the Advancement Office if you have questions or need guidance. • There will be no possession or use of any illegal drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products.
PRINTED NAME: SIGNATURE: DATE:
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PERMISSION, WAIVER, RELEASE, AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT Windward School Windward Network Internship Program June 2019 – August 2019 I/We, __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Parent or Legal Guardian Names the ______________________________________ of ___________________________________________________ request Relationship Student that my Student attend and participate in the Windward Network Internship Program (June 2019 – August 2019). Students in Grades 11 and 12 are given the opportunity to participate in the Windward Network Internship Program. The Windward Network Internship Program is strictly voluntary and students are not required to participate. For the Windward Network Internship Program, the Student works with the Director of the Windward Network to select his or her own fulfilling internship which provides the Student important real world experience in working with and assisting others. The Windward Internship Program will begin June 2019 and end on or before August 31, 2019. The Student may choose to participate in an internship in a variety of ways based on discussions between the student, family, and the School. Windward School is not responsible for, and has no control over, the activities or safety of any activities, locations, or sites during the Windward Network Internship Program.
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PERMISSION, WAIVER, RELEASE, AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT (CONT.) Windward School will not supervise any Student who chooses to participate in the Windward Network Internship Program. Parents or legal guardians should review proposed activities for issues of safety, transportation, emergency communication (including cell phones), and other related logistics. Parents or legal guardians must consider the risks inherent in these activities, and are strongly advised to discuss the potential risks of the activities with Students, on topics including but not limited to: driving or riding with other students/parents/legal guardians; site location; nature and health of clientele served; and all conceivable types of injuries that may arise from participation in the internship. Each Student’s parent or legal guardian is solely responsible to assure themselves of the safety of the site selected and to arrange for transportation to and from the site. I understand, acknowledge, and agree with the provisions set forth in this document. I understand that it is my responsibility to assess the safety of the Windward Network Internship Program activities, and any site where internship activities are performed, and that these activities are not supervised by Windward School. I understand that I am fully responsible for the Student’s safety during the Windward Network Internship Program activities at any location. I further understand that such activities have inherent hazards and risks, and can be potentially dangerous. Participation in these activities can potentially result in illness, injury, loss of property, or death. I, for myself, my child, (and my spouse), as the parent or legal guardian of the student named above, hereby voluntarily release, discharge, waive, and relinquish all claims that each may have against Windward School, its officers, agents, volunteers, and employees, arising out of or in any way related to the above described activity, including but not limited to, claims for bodily injury, personal injury, emotional distress, property damage, or death occurring to the student arising out of participation in the Windward Network Internship Program. I understand and acknowledge that the Student is expected to abide by all school regulations, including those in the student handbook, during the course of the internship. I further understand that during the internship the student will be held responsible for his or her own actions.
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PERMISSION, WAIVER, RELEASE, AND INDEMNITY AGREEMENT (CONT.) I recognize that transportation to or from the internship activities is my sole responsibility. I understand that Windward School is not liable for any accident or injury that may occur while my Student is being transported to or from the internship site, whether as a driver or as a passenger in another car. I also agree to indemnify and defend the School against, and agree to hold them harmless from, any and all claims, actions, suits, procedures, attorneys’ fees, costs, expenses, damages, and liabilities arising out of my child’s participation in the Windward Network Internship Program activities. The parent(s)/guardian(s)/Student acknowledge that they have read this “Permission, Waiver, Release, and Indemnity Agreement” and are aware of the legal consequences of signing this binding document.
PARENT/ GUARDIAN
DATE:
PARENT/ GUARDIAN
DATE:
STUDENT (IF OVER 18 YEARS OF AGE) DATE:
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INTERNSHIP REFLECTION FORM EXAMPLE STUDENTS This form will be sent via Google forms to interns at the end of their internship.
INTERN LAST NAME:
INTERNSHIP LOCATION:
INTERN FIRST NAME: INTERNSHIP MENTOR:
INTERNSHIP EXPERIENCE OVERALL – Please describe what you’ve learned about the field that you interned in. This can include skills that you’ve acquired, things that surprised you, and your overall impression of the experience. MENTOR IMPACT – Describe what you learned both from and about your mentor. For example, is there anything about him/her that surprised you? OVERALL IMPACT – What will you take away from this experience and how might it impact you in the future? PLEASE COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE – I would recommend participating in an internship through the Windward Network because... RECOMMENDATIONS – Do you have any suggestions in how we can enhance the internship program? WHAT INTERNSHIPS WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE ADDED IN THE FUTURE?
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QUESTIONNAIRE EXAMPLE MENTORS This form will be sent via Google form to mentors at the end of Summer.
MENTOR LAST NAME:
INTERNSHIP LOCATION:
MENTOR FIRST NAME:
INTERN(S) NAME(S):
Did the internship program run as you planned? Why or why not? Please describe any notable projects that the intern worked on during the course of the internship, and how they may have benefited the company. Did you experience any difficulties or challenges in your relationship with your intern? Please mention any other benefits/positive outcomes you’ve received from this mentoring relationship. For example, were there any benefits from having a Windward intern that surprised you? Do you think that the time spent with your intern was sufficient? (yes or no) Do you think that the time you spent together was helpful for your intern? (yes or no) Would you volunteer to serve as a mentor again next year or in the future? (yes or no) Recommendations: How can Windward better prepare interns for this experience? Recommendations: Do you have any suggestions in how we can enhance the internship program?
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Contacts
Advancement Office Robin Pickett: Director of Windward Network rpickett@windwardschool.org 213-261-2098
Thank you to the University of Colorado Boulder for serving as the inspiration and source for some of the content contained in this manual.
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