Missouri State University
Intern Placement

The RLS Internship Coordinator maintains a file of currently acceptable participating internship agencies/organizations from which the student may seek a placement site.  You may seek out and have an internship site approved by your advisor.  A bulletin board is also maintained in the RLS office area where current communication from potential internship agencies is posted.  You must make contact with an agency concerning a possible internship placement and provide the agency with a personal resume highlighting your professional preparation and aspirations for the internship.

Assignment with an agency/organization:  The intern should be given a thorough orientation to the site including introductions to other staff, explanation of policies and procedures, tour of facilities, et cetera.  The host organization is urged to place the intern in positions comparable to beginning full-time employees.  It is assumed that serious, mature senior interns receiving competent supervision will be able to successfully fulfill their responsibilities.  The host has the right and responsibility to terminate the intern for unacceptable conduct or work just as they would any paid employee.

Responsibilities/Assignments: During the internship the student should be given a varied and meaningful experience with exposure to the total agency/organization.  The intern should have the opportunity to study, observe in action, and participate in the implementation of programs, policies and management practices of the agency. Responsibilities and assignments will include the following:

Administration.  This includes the study of the legal status of the agency, owner/board relations, budgeting and record-keeping procedures, personnel and supervisory practices, general staff relations, and the values of and techniques in dealing with the public and the host's constituency in a courteous and effective manner.  The intern should attend owner/board and divisional meetings, work with committees, and communicate with various individuals within the organization, other divisions, and the community.  They should also gain experiences in public relations and marketing/promotion of the organization and its program.

Programming.  The intern should be directly involved in the planning, implementation, and leadership of activities and services characteristic of the host.

Facilities.  The intern should gain insight into physical facility planning and operation including long-range planning, layout and operation for daily use, and information related to selection of  maintenance equipment and supplies.

Special Project.  The intern is expected to make a specific and significant contribution through a special project.  The project may include research, brochure development, internship manual development, conduct of an in-service training session, responsibility for a segment or segments of a new agency program, et cetera.