Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are my responsibilities as a sponsor?
The internship sponsor provides the student with a learning opportunity in accordance with the student’s learning objectives, works with the internship coordinator to resolve any major issues that may arise, and completes an evaluation of the student’s performance at the end of the semester.

Am I eligible to host an intern?
In order to host an AEMM intern, an organization must be incorporated as a C-corporation, LLC, S-corporation, or be legally recognized as a non-profit organization; have a public office space; and provide direct, on-site supervision to the intern. The opportunity should be suitable for a student studying Arts, Entertainment & Media Management.

How do I post an internship opportunity?
Post your opportunity on ColumbiaWorks. All Columbia College students and alumni have access to this online resource. Although the AEMM internship coordinator forwards your opportunity to be posted, this does not automatically mean any Columbia student can receive credit for the internship. Credit is always determined on an individual basis.

When should I post and interview for my opening?
You should review the school’s registration deadlines to determine when to post, interview and hire interns. Remember that the internship must be registered on time. Here are recommended application deadlines:  
Spring internships – October;
Summer/Fall internships – March;
Fall internships (late deadline) – July.
Try to post at least four to six weeks prior to your application deadline.

How many hours does an intern need?
The number of hours an intern needs to fulfill his/her academic requirement can range from 75 to 450 hours per semester.  It is best to make individual arrangements based on the needs of the applicant and your organization. Students who are unsure of the number of hours they need to complete should contact the internship coordinator.

When can an intern start?
The internship must be completed within the semester in which the student is registered. Spring and fall are fifteen-week semesters; while summer is a twelve-week semester. An intern may begin on the first day of the semester, and must complete the internship by the last day. Semester dates and registration deadlines are available on the Records Office webpage at:
http://www.colum.edu/Administrative_offices/Records/index.php.
Click on Registration and then on Important Dates.

Do I have to pay my intern?
An internship may be paid or unpaid. Of course, we encourage sponsors to pay.

Do I have to complete any paperwork for a student to receive credit?
Yes. You must complete the Letter of Agreement with Sponsor Form with the student. Students who are eligible for credit may request this form from the internship coordinator. As part of this paperwork, you will be asked to submit a one-page internship description.

Do I evaluate my intern?
Yes. You will be notified when evaluations are due. Log on to this site again. Click on Resources and then on Student Evaluation.

Are students placed?
No. Students may apply directly to any eligible organization.

Are students recommended?
Not often. On occasion, the internship coordinator or another Columbia faculty/staff member may choose to contact an organization on behalf of a student. This is more an exception than it is the rule.