Peter B. Gustavson School of Business Co-op and Career

Internship Criteria
/ At least 8 weeks in duration (300 hours)
Can be a maximum of 8 months to end by December of the same year
Some remuneration preferred, but not necessary
Must be relevant to your studies and/or career interests
International component linking two or more regions of the world OR
Located in any region of the world, provided that it is not the student’s “home” region or country
Ensure the employer is aware your internship is a part of a co-op/internship program and willing to supervise, and submit two online evaluations (mid term and final), and available for a check-in meeting
First week
/ Meet with your supervisorto discuss Internship learning objectives & competency assessment
Attend company orientation and understand your projects and tasks
CompleteCompetency Assessment Part 1 - Work Term Goals and Learning Objectives Form (15–30 minutes). Completed with your supervisor.
Mid Point
/ Complete Competency Assessment Part 2 - Mid-Term Assessment Form(15-30 minutes).Student initiated, your employer will receive an email from UVic with a link to complete their section of the form.
Mid point “Check-in” Meeting is arranged by the Co-op Office to discuss progress on the internship and competency development. Any issues or concerns are addressed. (30 – 60 minutes, group or individually)
Completion
/ Complete Competency Assessment Part 3 - Final Assessment Form (15 – 30 minutes).Student initiated, your employer will receive an email from UVic Co-op and Career with a link to complete their section of the form.
Complete Reflective Paper due August 15th or January 15th
Complete survey of Co-op and Career Services.

Tips for Students

ORIENTATIONAsk to become familiar with your workplace. This will allow you to more quickly become comfortable and make a valuable contribution sooner. Orientation could include a tour of your workplace, and an introduction to your colleagues.

It is a great opportunity to:

Understand the organizational structure, culture and workplace expectations around behavior and professionalism

Discuss project or tasks including timelines and resources to assist

Discuss confidentiality and intellectual property policies

Develop learning goals and discuss competency development

Provide administrative details such as payroll, work hours, dress code, etc.

Get to know your employer and possible future employer!!

CONCERNSConsider this internship to be a three-way partnership between the university, student and employer. You are not alone and invited to consult with your University Coordinator to discuss any concerns, University resources available and formulate solutions as needed. The University is a resource to support both you and the employer and available at any point during the internship.

Some areas for concern may be:

Social isolation (self imposed)

Unsure of how to act

Medical issues

TRAINING & SUPERVISIONThis is important to have a supervisor that can act as a mentor and give clear direction. Every situation is different;the level of supervision depends on the employer/student relationship and ability of the employer.

Project success can be determined by:

Clear communication of expectations and mentorship

Assignment of resources (people and materials) to ensure a short learning curve

Clearly laid out objectives with achievable deliverables

Weekly meetings (30 min to 1 hour) to review work and set next weeks goals

Periodic feedback on workplace performance, both positive and constructive

Peter B. Gustavson School of Business Co-op and Career

Email: Tel: 250-472-4441 Fax: 250-721-6605