In the current business environment internships have become a vital component in how potential employers view candidates for their organization. The competition for these opportunities is fierce, not only among their peers, but with students from all over the country. Regardless of major, an internship allows an employer to measure the quality of a student, and a student can see if the firm or industry is a potential fit for their personal objectives. The bottom line is that there are not enough internships available for all students regardless of level of skill or ability.
The PIVIP is a hybrid program designed to bridge the gap in the shortage of internships by matching firms with students. Each internship opportunity can be custom tailored to meet the expectations of both the firm and the student. In some cases the work may be conducted away from a physical location, such as working on a business plan or a marketing campaign. The PIVIP can also accommodate onsite internships as desired.
All students in the Undergraduate and Graduate Programs at Park University will have the opportunity to participate in the PIVIP. Those accepted in the program will work first hand with client firms and volunteer mentors to develop a “real world” perspective of how their academic discipline integrates with the global economy. The PIVIP is an internship lab experience that allows students to see how their course work is involved in the business process. Throughout the program students will participate in actual work and decision making with client firms.
The PIVIP provides students with an on the-job work experience organized in an educational and academic manner. The benefits to students, employers, and the university are listed below.
Benefits to students:
- The student can better evaluate his or her chosen academic major.
- Classroom theory and principles become more meaningful through practical application.
- The student can earn academic credit.
- Upon graduation the student will have the advantage of professional experiences.
- The student may earn money to help finance his or her academic career.
- The student can secure networking opportunities leading to a permanent future job.
- The experience is an excellent addition to the student’s resume.
- The experience could open employment opportunities in the same firm.
Benefits to Client Firms:
- The employer and the student can observe each other for an extended period of time at work rather than only during short job interviews when considering long-term positions.
- Upon completion, the student becomes a contact for the employers seeking other prospective interns and employees.
- Employers reduce their training costs.
Benefits to the University:
- Create ties with governmental, business, and industrial community.
- Provide faculty members with the opportunity to utilize their specialties in the community.
- Helps to keep courses aligned with on-the-job requirements.
- Builds bridges with current and potential customers.
- Improves the image of all disciplines in the University (business, education, arts, etc.).
- Brings in additional support to all academic programs.
For more information please contact:
William Venable
Assistant Professor
Marketing and Management