November 02, 2010
Extern Program application deadline is Nov. 19
CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Juniors and seniors at Southern Illinois University Carbondale can apply now to participate in the University’s award-winning Extern Program. The application deadline is Nov. 19 at 4 p.m.
The SIU Alumni Association and Student Alumni Council, in conjunction with SIUC’s undergraduate colleges, administer the Extern Program during the University’s spring break, March 14-18.
Established in 1984 by the SIU Alumni Association, the Extern Program matches SIUC juniors and seniors with alumni and friends in professional work environments throughout the country to learn about their chosen career fields.
Throughout spring break, externs are given the opportunity to apply skills learned in the classroom to a professional setting. Externs will participate in meetings, sit in on employee training sessions and complete projects. Sponsors will offer career advice to students and guidance on how to obtain jobs within the industry.
Nearly 120 SIUC students were placed in externships in 2010. Extern presents students with the opportunity to make valuable career contacts. Approximately 45 percent of the externs are offered future opportunities with their sponsoring companies or organizations.
Participating students must meet a minimum GPA requirement, be an undergraduate with at least 56 credit hours or have a second year associate degree, and be enrolled at SIUC for both fall and spring semesters. They are also required to complete an application process, be interviewed, contact the sponsor prior to the externship, and attend a recognition ceremony.
In past years, the Extern Program has placed students in a variety of businesses and institutions, including Deloite and Touche, Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Shedd Aquarium, Boeing, Illinois Attorney General’s Office, and the Chicago Board of Trade.
Students may pick up applications at the SIU Alumni Association office on the second floor of the SIUC Student Center. Students may also apply online by visiting the SIU Alumni Association website at www.siualumni.com/extern. For more information, please call 618/453-2417.