Gain real-world experience through an internship
An internship could be for credit or non-credit, paid or unpaid. An internship means many things to many people. The Career and Professional Development Services website contains information about internships, including the benefits and how to find one. On Handshake, you can find listings of internship opportunities.
Attending the annual Mathematics, Statistics and Data Science Career Day and Actuarial Science Career Day in the fall is another great way to explore internships. Many employers offer opportunities to students during the academic year or summer. It is also possible for students to approach a company about developing a custom internship if they don't already have an existing internship program.
Mathematics, statistics, data science and actuarial science majors engaged in an internship have opportunities to see the value of an math degree beyond the more typical fields of teaching and tutoring. Because practical work experience is a magnet for future employers, students who pursue internships during their undergraduate years are better prepared to enter the job market after graduation. They have the opportunity to develop a clear idea of the kind of work they like or don't like. They gain skills in problem solving, working as members of a team, presenting their ideas, and learning specialized applications. Some recruiters believe that undertaking an internship during college is the smartest step a student can take toward a first job.
Through internships the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences hopes to:
- Attract outstanding students to experiences that aid career exploration
- Engage students in community service
- Acquaint employers with quality students from the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences
- Engage alumni in creating opportunities for the next generation of students
- Create relationships among the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, students, alumni, and community
For actuarial science majors, many industry specific internships are emailed directly to Gamma Iota Sigma members via their club membership.
Ready to move forward with an internship?
Read detailed Internship Information for Math Majors.
Once you've talked to an employer and both have agreed upon the terms of the internship, you need to complete the Internship Work Agreement. Your advisor will follow up to confirm the planned internship details.
After your internship is approved through SoMSS, the unit will initiate a Universal Internship Application (UIA) which will then be sent to you and your site supervisor to document the internship with the Office of Clinical Partnerships. Once that is completed, permission to register for MAT 484 will be granted.
