October 07, 2004
Extern program meetings set for Oct. 12, Oct. 21
CARBONDALE, Ill. - - Helping students get a jump-start on future careers is at the heart of the SIU Alumni Association's Extern Program. This year the application deadline is Nov. 19 for the program, which provides students with professional experience in their chosen career field during spring break.
Students interested in applying for the program are welcome to attend one of the information sessions scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 12, and Thursday, Oct. 21, in the Student Center Ballroom A.
Nearly 200 SIUC students participate in the extern program, which presents the opportunity for students to make valuable career contacts. About 30 percent of the externs earn future opportunities with their sponsoring companies or organizations. The extern program has received two national awards for student program excellence from the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.
To participate, students must meet a minimum GPA requirement (which varies among colleges), be an undergraduate with at least 56 credit hours or have an associate degree, be enrolled at SIUC for both fall and spring semesters, complete the application process, be interviewed, contact the sponsor prior to the externship and attend a recognition ceremony.
During the externship, students will work 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Externs participate in meetings, sit in on employee training sessions and complete projects. Sponsors will provide career advice, examine resumes and review transcripts to provide guidance on classes needed to obtain jobs within the industry.
Application forms are available online at http://www.siualumni.com/extern. Return completed applications to the SIU Alumni Association office on the second floor of the Student Center. For more information about the extern program call 618/453-2417 or visit the Web site.