Internships: Conduct / expectations

The intern should not be perceived as a "go-fer” or "volunteer” or “clerical assistant” and given menial tasks that will not teach the skills needed for the profession they are being introduced to via COM 3945. The Communication School expects all COM 3945 interns to be treated with respect, as a professional colleague. Each internship thus must be equipped to provide a true and appropriate educational experience for that profession. It is understood that certain jobs entail some clerical work (for example, photocopying, faxing, stuffing envelopes). However, these tasks should not represent the bulk of the student's internship experience. Students who find themselves in that situation – or who encounter inappropriate workplace conditions or issues, including discrimination or harassment or job duties that do not match the position advertised -- should immediately report those problems to the course supervisor.

The COM 3945 supervisor reserves the right to terminate the internship of any student who might be exploited or mistreated as described above. Students are strongly encouraged to report any type of exploitive or harassing behavior to the internship course supervisor. Examples of this type of behavior might include being asked to do additional tasks unrelated to the internship, discriminatory practices aimed at the student, pressure to develop personal relationships with the employment supervisor or other employees, and any type of sexual innuendo or overture being made toward the student by a work colleague/employer.

At the same time, students should realize that while they are participating in the internship program, they represent Florida Atlantic University and the School of Communication and Multimedia Studies. Student interns who are punctual, diligent, well-spoken, responsible, and professional in demeanor can reflect positively on the internship program and encourage employers to continue to seek FAU student interns.

Students are encouraged to be particularly selective when choosing an internship placement. However, once a student assumes an internship it should become a priority commitment. Students sometimes drop classes when their schedules get too busy. Dropping an internship can harm the employer’s perception of FAU interns and the COM 3945 program and should be avoided unless a significant workplace problem arises. The internship course supervisor is available anytime during the semester to discuss concerns related to a student’s particular internship.