The value of internships

People like to know that you did something while you were in college. It’s good that you’re taking all these classes…but employers like to see that you weren’t just sitting on your couch all summer. —Marli Lee-McGarrah ’13

Throughout their time at Lewis & Clark, students gain a foundation in the liberal arts that prepares them for successful careers. Complementing classroom experiences, activities such as community service, networking events, workstudy positions, and internships help students develop professional skills and connections.

Nearly 20 students received awards last summer to support internships ranging from Lee-McGarrah’s job with Atlantic Records in Los Angeles to positions that sent other students to the Smithsonian archives, the Amazon rainforest, and the halls of Parliament. 

The Stephanie Fowler and Irving Levin Summer Internship Awards made it possible for students to explore career options in fields that do not traditionally offer paid internships and in locations where travel and living expenses made internships financially prohibitive. The Fowler & Levin internship awards program is just one of the many opportunities available to Lewis & Clark students preparing for diverse careers.

Translating liberal arts experience into jobs

The Center for Career and Community Engagement (3CE) recognizes that internships are an ideal way for liberal arts students to gain practical job experience outside of the classroom. Staff members from 3CE work with students throughout their time at Lewis & Clark to help them discover their goals and interests, connect to opportunities in the community that enrich their academic experience, and prepare for successful lives after college.

Engaging students, alumni, faculty, and community partners, 3CE emphasizes integrative learning: connecting skills and knowledge from multiple experiences to prepare students to become lifelong learners and global citizens.

“Every experience is an opportunity to gain insights about yourself, your community, and your world,” Minda Heyman, director of 3CE, said. “We’re here to help students synthesize their experiences with what they are learning in the classroom in order to determine their path and purpose.”

Learn more about career and community engagement at Lewis & Clark:

• In Newsweek’s 2011 college rankings, Lewis & Clark came in fifth among the nation’s most service-oriented schools. While all new students volunteer during orientation, some spend their first week as Pioneers on service projects dedicated to addressing issues like hunger and poverty.
• In January 2012, students will participate in a weeklong workshop focused on entrepreneurship and the liberal arts. 
• Grants are available for students-directed alternative spring or fall break programs. Supported by 3CE, these trips help students become innovative leaders and citizens of the world. Learn more about the 2011 Alternative Fall Break partnership with PCUN Oregon Farmworker’s Union.

Center for Career and Community Engagement   Admissions