Alumni and Parent Internship Program

We encourage alumni, parents and friends of St. Olaf to consider both projects/roles in which students can help address one or more of your organization’s needs AND career exposure opportunities in which students can explore an industry and learn about your organization’s culture, work environment, etc.

Potential Projects:

St. Olaf students are quick learners with strong research, analytical and communications skills. Projects should be based on the particular needs of your business or organization. Examples of potential projects include:

• Research a topic, write a report and/or present to your team
• Analyze data and create data visualizations
• Develop communications content (e.g., website, article, stories, slideshow, etc.)
• Develop educational or training resources
• Plan an event, workshop, etc.
• Draft reports or proposals
• Suggest improvements to your website
• Manage social media
• Interview clients or other stakeholders and summarize findings
• User experience testing
• Develop a marketing plan

Potential Career Exploration Opportunities:

• Conduct informational interviews with co-workers
• Attend and observe meetings (e.g., organizational/departmental meetings, client meetings, professional development seminars, etc.)
• Research industry trends
• Opportunities for students to talk about what they are learning and experiencing

An internship is an opportunity for a student to both learn and contribute in a professional setting.

Summer internships typically require students to work 20-40 hours per week for 6-10 weeks sometime between May 27 and August 22.

Students completing unpaid internships would likely qualify for funding through St. Olaf if the experience requires at least 240 hours over at least 8 weeks.  Award amounts are based on expenses incurred (rather than making up for lost wages).

In-person, virtual and hybrid experiences are possible and there are pros and cons to each.

In general, students seem to appreciate at least some opportunities to interact in-person with their supervisor and colleagues.

However, virtual internships are preferred in many situations, especially outside of Minnesota or other places where students prefer to live during the summer.

We look forward to discussing the best approach for your specific situation.

Most students who secure unpaid internships/experiences that meet the minimum requirements for Interim (approximately 240 hours over at least 8 weeks) will be eligible to receive funding through the Piper Center to cover expenses like housing, food and transportation. Students with minimal expenses are likely eligible for a minimum award of approximately $800. Students with significant financial need often qualify for additional funding. After students secure their internship they can apply for funding through this program.

Determining whether an internship is paid or unpaid ultimately rests with you, the employer, based on your interpretation of Fair Labor Standards.  For-profit companies typically pay students an hourly wage or stipend.

The position description should include information such as the position title, organization, description of duties and opportunities, qualifications, skills required, etc.

Please use the St. Olaf Internship Position Description Template as a guide.

If you have any questions, please contact Marietta Ruppe <ruppe2@stolaf.edu> and/or your Piper Center contact.