An internship
- Should be a learning experience that enhances or complements the student's educational program and potential career goals.
- Allows students to participate in a program that is specifically directed toward their field of interest thus assisting them in establishing and achieving career goals and fosters professional growth.
- Increases student motivation for their chosen fields by integrating classroom instruction with a planned and supervised practical experience.
- Aids in preparing students for employment through field training and/or professional experience.
- Allows students to develop valuable networks.
- Provides an opportunity for students to "try out" potential careers under real world conditions.
An internship can be paid or unpaid; can be "For Credit" or "Not-for-Credit"; can be a long term or a short term experience. "For Credit" internships require written documentation and the student pays tuition for the credits. "Not-for-Credit" requires no documentation from the university.
Many internships in the animal production, feed and allied industries are paid. However, veterinary, zoo, exotic animal, wildlife and animal shelter internships are often volunteer opportunities.
Examples of companies and farms offering internships
- Aldermere Farm
- Alltech
- Cargill
- Centre Wildlife Care
- Hanover Shoe Farm
- Hoard's Dairyman
- Kentucky Equine Management Program
- Kreamer Feeds
- Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
- Pfizer
- Philadelphia Zoo
- Purina Mills
- Select Sires
- Tyson Foods
For further information or questions contact the Animal Science Internship Coordinator, Madison Heilveil.
