Providing quality supervision is an essential element in establishing a successful experiential learning opportunity. Consider the following points:

Orientation & Training

Provide company/departmental and technical orientation. Provide an orientation to your organization (by the supervisor or student program coordinator) so that students will learn about policies, benefits, the facility, etc. Having a handbook that is geared for student workers can also be extremely helpful. Expectations Treat intern as you would any new employee Provide clear and specific job description, expectations and time schedules.

Employer Guidelines Strategies for a Successful Internship Internship Position Description Site Agreement Student Eligibility The Successful Supervisor The Student Perspective Academic Calendar Employer Survey   Questions? Email us at cbastudentaffairs@csus.edu or call us at 916-278-5875.

Work Assignments

• Pre-plan and organize work assignments and projects in advance of the student's arrival.
• Discuss work assignments in the context of the larger project or department goals.
• Consider student's skills and interests in relation to tasks and develop mutually beneficial and measurable learning objectives.
• If possible, have supervisors encourage students to participate in your organization's training programs as well as cross-department assignments.
• Assign projects of increasing responsibility and challenge over time.

Work Environment

• Create an atmosphere receptive to "supervised learning," whereby the student can progress quickly with someone available to expect and encourage questions.
• Include students in meetings and problem-solving sessions.

Supervision

• Keep in mind that as an intern supervisor you are important. You are the student's daily contact, source of valuable information, teacher/mentor, motivator and leader. You personify the organization.
• Place students with carefully selected and trained supervisors.
• Be sure that supervisors provide students with detailed information about the work they will be doing, including specific tasks, relevant equipment, and work flow. Have students and supervisors meet at least weekly to address students' questions and provide them with feedback on their performance.

Evaluation

• Establish criteria for performance evaluation at the beginning of the assignment and provide regular and ongoing feedback.
• Involve supervisors and students in a formal evaluation process. Be sure that students know how and when their performance will be evaluated.