October 31, 2007
Application deadline for extern program is Nov. 16
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Students who want to spend Spring Break gaining professional experience in their chosen career fields can look to the SIU Alumni Association Extern Program for help.
The association is taking applications for the program now. Forms are available online at www.siualumni.com/extern. Applicants should submit completed forms to the SIU Alumni Association on the second floor of the SIUC Student Center. Deadline is 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 16.
The program is open to undergraduates with at least 56 credit hours or a second year associate degree. Eligible students meet a minimum grade point average requirement and must be enrolled at SIUC for both the fall and spring semesters. The application process includes an interview. Students will contact their sponsors before the externship and attend a recognition ceremony.
During the externship, students work Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They will participate in meetings and employee-training sessions and must complete a project. Sponsors review transcripts to provide guidance on classes needed to obtain jobs within the industry, provide career advice and examine resumes.
Nearly 160 SIUC students served as externs last year. The program simulates a "real world" job search and presents students with the opportunity to make valuable career contacts. In 2007, 58 percent of the externs were offered future opportunities with their sponsoring companies or organizations.
For more information about the extern program, call 618/453-2417.