It is by observing and doing the work associated with a particular career, that a student can gain a broader understanding of what that career entails and how their interests and skills may apply in a particular setting. While internships are a great way to get such experience, many students cannot commit the time required (90 hours) for our program, particularly during the school year.
As an alternative, we have established an Externship Program, also known as job shadowing, as a means of connecting students with a career mentor in the local area, their home town, or some other convenient location. This can be a great alternative method of connecting with a talented pool of candidates with very little commitment on your part. There is no minimum hourly requirement, but we suggest allowing a student to spend at least several days with you on your job site. This is especially important in career fields where the study and practice of a discipline are considerably different. Think of it as "pre-recruiting" at little or no cost to you.
ULTRA ALTERNATIVE SPRING BREAK
Each spring, Field and Career services offers Beloit College students an "Ultra Alternative Spring Break." The goal of this program is to provide students with the opportunity to explore a particular career field, by shadowing alumni. Students have the opportunity to learn more about a career by shadowing a professional in the field. Students complete small projects and gain a greater understanding of all the operations within the organization. If you are interested in hosting a student for a future job shadowing experience, contact Field and Career Services.
Past Ultra Alternative Spring Break sites include:
- Barrington Partners, Business Consultant - Boston, MA
- Maine Medical Center, Elder Life Specialist - Portland, ME
- Peterson Environmental Consulting, Director of Cultural Resources -Mendota Heights, MN
- PRH & Co., President - Potomac, MD
- State of Wisconsin, Prosecuting Attorney- Madison, WI
- Williams County, Judge of Juvenile and Probate Court - Byran, OH
For additional information, contact us at (608) 363-2673 or facs@beloit.edu