Thank you for your interest in hiring Kalamazoo College students! Internships are a powerful way to give back—providing students with real-world experience, mentorship, and career insight. Below are a few key tips to ensure your internship opportunity is beneficial, ethical, and in line with national best practices.
Internships are Learning Experiences First
Students seek internships to develop skills, apply their education, and explore career paths. Interns should be:
- Supervised and mentored with regular check-ins and feedback.
- Given meaningful, project-based work that contributes to their learning.
- Introduced to the organization’s structure, culture, and field.
Paid Internships Are Strong Internships
Whenever possible, internships should be paid. Compensation helps level the playing field and ensures that all students—regardless of financial background—can access professional experiences.
Not sure if your internship can be unpaid?
The Department of Labor uses a “primary beneficiary test” to determine if unpaid internships in the for-profit sector are lawful. In short, the student—not the employer—must be the main beneficiary of the arrangement.
See more: DOL Fact Sheet #71
Internship Best Practices from NACE
The National Association of Colleges and Employers recommends that strong internships include:
- Structured learning goals
- Ongoing supervision
- Clear start/end dates
- Orientation and training
- Opportunities for reflection and feedback
- Evaluation at the end of the internship
Learn more: NACE Best Practices
We’re Here to Help
We’d love to help you craft a high-quality internship supporting your organization and our students. Please contact the Center for Career and Professional Development if you’d like guidance or to post an opportunity.
Email: career@kzoo.edu
Phone: 269.337.7183
Resources: