What is a job shadow/externship?
Externships are job shadowing opportunities that give you an inside look at a job, firm, and career. Externs experience a typical workday and see first-hand how the organization runs and how work gets done in that field. You learn the expectations firms have of new employees, and gain a sense of how that work fits your interests and skills. Externships vary from 1 to 5 days and are sponsored by alumni and friends of Suffolk. The range of available industries, companies, and locations will depend on the sponsors.

How can a job shadow benefit you?
These job shadowing opportunities  help you better understand how work gets done in your field and the expectations firms have of new employees. You can ask questions openly and seek advice from people in that career field. You’ll develop a better understanding of the pace of work, the organization environment, tips on preparing for a job in that field, and possible career paths. This information will help you make better choices about electives, internships, minors and other academic decisions in your junior and senior year.

While this is a job shadowing experience, you should show initiative, curiosity, and enthusiasm, because everyone you meet at your externship is a potential contact. For that reason, it is essential that you conduct yourself with utmost professionalism at all times at an externship. This is an important step in developing your networking skills.

What experiences or tasks might one experience?
It is likely you will spend most of your time observing others, asking questions, and getting advice and information. Sponsors determine how externs spend their time.

Typical experiences of externs include any of the following:
• Tour of the organization
• Shadow the sponsor and/or colleagues during the workday.
• Observe general office tasks, staff meetings, and interactions of one or more departments
• Observe client interactions or assist clients directly
• Assist with office tasks or projects; prepare or proofread documents,
• Review the organization’s website, mission, marketing collateral, organizational charts
•  Have a meal with sponsor or others
• Conduct informational interviews with your sponsor’s colleagues and key staff members to understand the organization, industry and future trends, and career paths within this field.
• Meet Human Resources staff to understand what they look for in college graduates
• Meet with Suffolk alumni who work there
• Meet young, recently hired staff to understand their experiences

Is there any credit or pay?
No. Students do not receive academic credit or pay.

When do job shadows take place?
In 2011-2012, they will only take place during Spring Break. The exact dates will be determined by the sponsor.

How long do job shadows last?
Externships vary in length from 1 to 5 days, as specified by the sponsor. You must be flexible with your spring break schedule – the length of the externship cannot be changed. Students must commit to the entire externship to which they are matched.

Are there costs to participate?
Students are expected to pay for all expenses associated with participating in the program, such as transportation- getting to and from the externship site, meals, and accommodations if necessary. NOTE: some sponsors may choose to buy lunch for the student, but this is not required and should not be expected.

Who can apply? 
Only sophomore students are eligible to apply through December 9th. Due to the demand, students may only participate in the program as a sophomore, and we cannot guarantee that all students who apply  will be matched to shadow opportunities.

How do I apply?
First, fill out the Job Shadow Application form. You must be available spring break, preferably all 5 days, in order to maximize your chances of being matched with an available sponsor.

Second, read the FAQ  below to make sure you qualify and understand the policies and process.

Third,  you must submit electronically your  Application Form.

Additionally, you must email your resume to emcdowel@suffolk.edu.

Finally, you will be required to attend an orientation in January.

What is the selection process?
Students will be matched to externships based on interests and availability, as well as geographic locations.

Does every applicant get an externship?
No. The program is  popular and not all students can be matched.  We will do our best.

You can improve your chances of being selected by following these tips: (1) Fully complete the application form; (2) explain why the externship selected is a match for your career interests, (3) update and edit your resume to include volunteer and work experiences, community and club involvement, and anything else that will help us know you. Resumes and applications should have no typos and be well-written; 4) be available for all 5 days of spring break; and 5) select 3 areas of interest.

What are the deadlines?

Applications must be in by December 9, 2011.