Accepting an Internship
Internships in Environmental and Forest Biology
Understanding Your Commitment
Accepting the offer of an internship imposes a firm commitment from which you may not withdraw except under extraordinary circumstances and with the explicit permission of the faculty sponsor. Consequently, it is essential that you proceed with a full understanding of the personal obligations attendant to the decision you make.
Clarifying the Internship Conditions
When you do decide to accept an offer, make certain that you have clarified the conditions under which you are accepting the internship: the stipend (if any); the hours; the starting date and time and the place to which you should report; the name of your immediate supervisor; and, the nature of your work assignment. Once you have accepted an assignment, immediately notify the faculty sponsor and they will assist you in the completion of your "Memorandum of Understanding" (SP-4—Word, PDF). This helps to ensure the interests and promote the benefits of an internship or cooperative program for all parties involved. If you still have an application pending with any other organization(s) be sure to inform them that you are no longer available to accept a placement.
Forms That Must Be Signed
If you are receiving academic credit for the internship, regardless of any stipend, you must read and sign the "Confidential Information Agreement" and "Acceptance of Internship Assignment" form (SP-5—Word, PDF). Return the completed form to your faculty sponsor.
