For Students
Explore the information below to learn more!
An academic internship is three-way partnership between a student, a faculty sponsor, and a community partner, which links classroom learning with real-world experience in a professional setting.
The main priority of an academic internship is to provide students with a learning experience during which they gain new knowledge by performing tasks, working on projects, completing other on-the-job learning experiences, and through mentoring. They are usually the length of a semester, part-time, and can be paid or unpaid.
We are excited to offer you a range of academic internship opportunities that are tailored to your interests and career goals. These internships provide hands-on experience in various fields to enhance your academic journey.
Before applying, it is important to note that each opportunity has specific steps and agreements in place. To learn more and start the application process, please contact Andrea Picard, our Coordinator of Experiential Learning at apicard@hcc.edu.
Andrea will guide you through the necessary documents and steps to secure your desired internship. Take the initiative, explore your options, and embark on a fulfilling academic internship experience!
Please note that while some community partners are specifically requesting fall interns, many are also willing to sponsor interns for the summer.
Academic Internship Opportunities
Please note: While some Community Partners are specifically requesting fall interns, many are also willing to sponsor interns for the summer.
- Try out your career choice. Discover if the career you’re considering is right (or wrong) for you.
- Apply knowledge and develop skills. Apply what you’re learning in the classroom, and develop professional workplace skills.
- Gain job search skills. Create a professional resume, sharpen your interviewing skills, and a practice interacting professionally.
- Build a network. Develop a network of professional contacts, mentors, and references.
- Increase your marketability. Position yourself for a smoother transition into the workforce.
The student should schedule a ONE-ON-ONE APPOINTMENT WITH COORDINATOR, Andrea Picard:
- provide details of internship opportunities
- review resumes/interviewing preparedness
- assist with application processes
- Click here to schedule an appointment
- Current HCC student enrolled in an academic program
- Eagerness and a desire to learn from a combination of work and academics
- Willingness to adhere to the MA Community Colleges Student Code of Conduct
- Agree in writing to follow the employer's rules and policies; to work your scheduled hours; and to demonstrate appropriate behavior, appropriate dress, and confidentiality as required
- Submit a signed Acknowledgment of Risk & Consent form
- Meet academic program prerequisites or permission from faculty or department Upon approval of the ExL coordinator's review of documents and the student's agreement to fulfill the obligations of the internship and adhere to its requirements, students will be considered eligible to participate in a credit-bearing internship
Contact Andrea Picard, Experiential Learning Coordinator
Click here to schedule an appointment!
apicard@hcc.edu
Donahue 285
413-552-2342
Who is the Experiential Learning Coordinator?
Andrea Picard, Experiential Learning Coordinator
Integrative Learning/Academic Affairs
Donahue 285
413-552-2342
Click here to schedule an appointment!
I DON'T HAVE AN INTERNSHIP. WHAT DO I DO?
Don't worry! The Academic Internship Program works closely with area organizations who are interested in sponsoring HCC student interns - Summer and Fall 2024 Internship Opportunities
Please note: While some Community Partners are specifically requesting fall interns, many are also willing to sponsor interns for the summer. if i have an internship, will i still need to attend the first five weeks of the course?
Can I still get an internship if I have no experience?
Organizations value skills developed through academic work, volunteer experiences, extracurricular activities, and other activities. Not all of these skills are job-specific; some are general, such as communication skills and analytical skills, and can be used in different settings. Many types of student jobs can demonstrate to organizations that you have been a successful employee. Obtaining an internship is a great way to bridge this gap.
Do I have to pay for an internship?
Yes. As with any credit-bearing course, you register and pay tuition for an academic internship. If you are eligible for Financial Aid, it will be covered as other courses that go towards your program electives or requirements.
Am I allowed to take classes while doing an internship?
Students are able to schedule an internship course with other courses up to 18 credits per term. Please seek advice from your faculty sponsor or the ExL coordinator to determine how this may impact your internship.
How many hours will I be expected to work at my internship site?
The number of hours students are expected to work at the internship site will depend on the number of academic credits the student will earn.
| # of credits | Total hours |
| 3 | 135 |
| 2 | 90 |
| 1 | 45 |
What if there's a school holiday or a snow day?
As a student intern, you are following the organization's schedule. Therefore, school holidays, vacations, snow days, etc. will not apply to you unless your organization is also closed for that day.
What happens if the experience hasn't turned out to be what I expected?
Every experience is unique, so it depends on your specific situation. The ExL coordinator and your faculty sponsor can advise you through any difficulties you may experience. The sooner you connect with either of them, the better they will be able to assist you.
What happens if I get fired from my internship?
Be proactive and professional at all times to prevent that from happening. If you are fired, depending on the reasons for termination, you may or may not have the opportunity to re-do your internship. Please schedule a meeting to discuss options with the ExL coordinator immediately.
What happens if I get injured at the internship site?
Inform your site supervisor right away so they can assess the situation and assist you in receiving proper medical attention. You or your site supervisor should contact the ExL coordinator as soon as possible.
What if I decide to quit my internship?
Before notifying your site supervisor, contact the ExL coordinator and/or your faculty sponsor as soon as possible to discuss your options.
What if my question isn't answered here?
Andrea Picard, Experiential Learning Coordinator
Integrative Learning/Academic Affairs
Donahue 285
413-552-2342
Click here to schedule an appointment!
why an academic internship?
Let Ashley Rivest walk you through the details of the academic internship class.
