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Experiential Learning
Internship is a key component of carrying out the vision of the University: to be characterized by a commitment to equip students to discover and answer God’s call in their lives.
Every major program of study has a field experience component. Internships enhance students’ readiness for the transition from college to career, as well as give them an advantage in the graduate admissions process, in the competition for entry-level positions, and in the achievement of career satisfaction.
Meaningful Internships
NACE suggests the following criteria be met in order for an experience to qualify as an internship:
- The experience must be an extension of the classroom: a learning experience that provides for applying the knowledge gained in the classroom. It must not be simply to advance the operations of the employer or be the work that a regular employee would routinely perform.
- The skills or knowledge learned must be transferable to other employment settings.
- The experience has a defined beginning and end, and a job description with desired qualifications.
- There are clearly defined learning objectives/goals related to the professional goals of the student’s academic coursework.
- There is supervision by a professional with expertise and educational and/or professional background in the field of the experience.
- There is routine feedback by the experienced supervisor.
There are resources, equipment, and facilities provided by the host employer that support learning objectives/goals.
Recent Internships
Curious where Bushnell students get hands-on, professional experience to add to their resume?
Jah’lin Green: Kidsports
After completing an internship this past spring semester, recent Bushnell University graduate and interdisciplinary studies major Jah’lin Green reflected on an experience that helped build his confidence and strengthen his passion for helping others. Green completed his internship with Kidsports, serving as an assistant coach and mentor for young athletes in the Eugene community.
Read More about Jah’lin’s story.
Avery Lenssen: One Hope
With the spring semester nearing its end, Bushnell University senior Avery Lenssen is finishing an internship with One Hope, a nonprofit serving communities throughout Eugene. As a business administration major, Lenssen entered the nonprofit space for the first time and was unsure what to expect. The internship turned into something much bigger than anticipated, helping her discover a new direction for the future.
Read more about Avery’s story.
Nathan Griffiths: Brinoch
Senior contemporary music industry major Nathan Griffiths completed his fall internship with the installation team at Brinoch, gaining hands-on experience in professional audio installation and system integration. Brinoch specializes in audio, video, and lighting system integration, designing, deploying, and delivering customized solutions that simplify complex technology so clients can focus on messaging.
Read More about Nathan’s story.
Noely Flores Fonseca: Eugene Police Department
Recent forensic psychology graduate Noely Flores Fonseca ’25 completed her fall internship with the Eugene Police Department this past semester, gaining hands-on experience in law enforcement and meaningful insight into her future career goals. The internship allowed her to connect classroom learning with real-world practice while exploring what a career in the field could look like.
Read More about Noely’s story.
Internship Guidelines
Internship sites, whether on-campus or off-campus, must go through an approval process prior to accepting a student as an intern. Approval is based on the following criteria:
- The site is able to abide by the internship guidelines set by the University.
- The site has the ability to train and supervise undergraduate interns.
- The site is able to provide tasks and projects that align with students’ learning objectives and program of study.
- The site is able to accommodate the minimum number of clock hours necessary for the completion of the credit requirements within students’ disciplines.
- The designated site supervisors possess qualifications and experience in the area over which they are supervising.
The specific academic policies that govern internship are outlined in the current academic catalog.
Questions?
Next Steps
Interested in becoming a part of the Beacon community? We’re here to answer questions and help you see if Bushnell is right for you.
