Frequently Asked Questions for Internship Sponsors

What kinds of writing can Professional Writing interns do?
Professional Writing interns are trained in theories of rhetoric and writing, both digital and print. They take courses in research methods, publishing, computer-aided writing, and rhetorical theory. Most of our majors have already completed class projects for local clients. Some of the tasks for which they are prepared include developing promotional and marketing materials, designing and testing websites, producing manuals and training materials, developing documentation for software or computer products, copyediting documents, writing press releases or news articles, composing and revising policy documents, researching and writing grant applications, assisting in book/journal/magazine publishing processes, or creating tutorials and other help materials. For more information, read this description of the PW major.

What do I need to do as an internship sponsor?
Internship sponsors work with the internship coordinator to establish appropriate tasks and goals for the internship experience. Sponsors will need to make sure tha the goals for the student intern are clear, and they will need to be available to provide limited guidance on internship projects. They will also need to sign off on three documents for the intern: an internship work agreement form, which details the intern's duties; a brief mid-semester evaluation form; and a final evaluation form. These evaluations will be taken into consideration by the internship coordinator in providing a final evaluation for the interns so it is important to be as honest as possible.

I would like to sponsor an intern. What should I do?
If you have a need for a Professional Writing intern, please contact the internship coordinator. Remember that most internships are offered during the Spring semester, although there is some availablity for Fall and Summer.

What about pay for the internship?
The vast majority of internships are unpaid. One reason for this is that the intern receives course credit for the internship experience; thus, the experience is considered part of the intern's education. Also, many of our non-profit agencies and small businesses cannot afford to pay interns. We want students to consider these opportunities as equal to internships within larger corporate structures.

I would like to get a summer intern. What can I do?
We are working on developing a summer internship course for graduate students in rhetoric and composition. Please contact us and let us know if this opportunity interests you.