Humanities Internships | School of Humanities

WHAT IS AN INTERNSHIP?

An internship consists of an independent study combining fieldwork with academic activities. It allows students to augment classroom learning by working in a social, business, political, cultural, or community organization away from the campus community.

By completing suitable academic work under the direction of a faculty member, GHC students may earn course credit for internships. Faculty supervision will consist, at minimum, of consulting with and advising students as they search for internships, making contact with field supervisors throughout the internships, and receiving and processing final written reports from students upon completion of the internships.

Student work in a career-related job in their major field with no assistance or supervision by a faculty member may provide value to the student, but, for the purposes of this course requirement, is not considered an internship.

Recent examples:
Katie Weatherford, film graduate, worked as a Production Assistant on the film Hero shot in Columbia, SC, during the summer of 2022.
Ashley Hall, former Editor in Chief for Six Mile Post, worked in promotions and marketing for Kingfisher Art Studio in Rome, GA, during the summer of 2023.

WHY DO AN INTERNSHIP?

An internship provides a bridge between the theoretical and the practical; between an academic setting and the workplace; between Georgia Highlands College and the larger local, regional, national, and even international community.

Internships allow students to gain first-hand experience in a particular field of interest. This can help strengthen students' training in their majors and in seeking jobs. In some instances, students who perform well in their internships may even be offered jobs after graduation in the company in which they complete the internship.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does an internship differ from a job?

Internships emphasize learning on the job rather than earning money, although the latter may be a part of the benefit. Internships provide a chance to observe the work, to gain on-the-job experience, and to learn whether you like the field before seeking a career in it. They may take place during a summer, a term off from school, or as a part-time course during the school year, depending on your needs and the requirements of your major.

Why is an internship important?

How do I find an internship?

Check the GHC Library for national directories that cite programs such as America’s Top 100 Internships, and more. Talk with faculty members in Humanities about your interests and learn of contacts or ideas that they may have. Ask your personal network (family, friends, colleagues, etc.) for any connections they may have in your field of interest, as well. Any organization in your field of interest has potential: explore the organization to see where you might fit in best and propose a plan to the employer.

Are internships paid opportunities?

While some internships provide payment, the educational focus should be the value of the work experience provided. Given a choice between one which pays (with little work experience of value) and one that does not pay (but offers good, relevant experience), consider taking the unpaid internship. To earn money, particularly in a summer internship, you might be able to work fewer than 40 hours per week at the internship and get a part-time job elsewhere, as needed.

For more information, contact

Humanities Division Chair:
Allen Dutch
adutch@highlands.edu
706-368-7639