Understanding the specific duties and projects you’ll be working on helps you assess if the opportunity aligns with your skills and interests. It also gives you a clearer picture of the type of experience you’ll gain.
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- Home: Externship and Internship Advantage Guide
- Chapter 1: The Value of Experiential Learning
- Chapter 2: Externships vs. Internships
- Chapter 3: Things to Consider When Applying for Internships
- Chapter 4: Hands-on Learning at the Brooks School of Public Policy
- Chapter 5: Beyond Your MPA Internship or Externship: Career Support for Brooks School Students
Chapter 2:
Externships vs. Internships
While there are many similarities between the two experiential learning opportunities, externships and internships are slightly different. In this chapter, we’ll learn a bit more about each option and some questions to consider as you decide what types of internships/externships to pursue.
The Difference Between Public Administration Internships and Externships
Even though the words sound similar, there are some subtle differences between what you’ll do in internships vs. externships. For example, a public administration internship typically involves more hands-on work experience at organizations that can range from businesses to government agencies and nonprofits.
These opportunities might involve work on projects related to policy analysis, program management, community outreach, or public affairs. Interns may also have the chance to collaborate with government officials, conduct research, assist with administrative tasks, and contribute to the daily operations of the organization.
Externships in this field typically involve more observation-based learning, where you shadow professionals in the field to gain insight into their roles and responsibilities. This may include attending meetings, observing decision-making processes, and learning about the overall functioning of a government agency or nonprofit organization. You’ll have a chance to ask questions, network with professionals, and explore different aspects of public administration, without taking on specific project-based tasks.
The bottom line is that both opportunities can provide you with valuable experience that will help you better understand the concepts you learn in the classroom — and that you can apply as you step into your career.
The Benefits of an Internship or Externship
Regardless of which experience you choose, here are some of the ways you’ll benefit from an externship or internship:
- Hands-on Work Experience. Gain practical, real-world experience in a professional setting.
- See What You Learn in Class in Action. Apply what you learn through your courses to actual work tasks, gaining a deeper understanding of how skills and knowledge translate to the workplace.
- Skill Development. Develop new skills and enhance existing ones with guidance from experienced professionals.
- New Work Environments. Learn about the culture and dynamics of a professional workplace, communication norms, and overall organizational behavior.
- Networking Opportunities. Build connections with professionals in the field that could lead to mentoring relationships or job opportunities in the future.
- Career Exploration. Explore different career paths and industry operations, which will help you clarify your professional goals and interests.
Finding the Engaged Learning Opportunity That’s Right for You
Note that these hands-on learning opportunities aren’t one size fits all. So you want to select an option that aligns with your professional goals. As you research externships and internships, here are some questions to ask:
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Knowing if the internship/externship is paid or unpaid, as well as understanding the compensation details, can help you plan financially. Some programs, like the Brooks School’s, offer grants to support students in unpaid positions.
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Knowing the time commitment involved is key to effectively planning your schedule and availability.
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Having access to mentors can provide guidance, support, and insights that contribute to your development.
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Understanding the company culture and values helps you assess if the organization’s environment aligns with your own work style and values, contributing to a more positive and rewarding experience.
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Knowing how your performance will be assessed and if there are mechanisms for feedback and growth enables you to track your progress, identify areas for improvement, and maximize your learning opportunities.
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Networking can open doors to potential collaborations, job opportunities, and professional relationships. Engaging with professionals in the organization or industry can expand your network and enhance your career prospects.
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Knowing if there are opportunities for future employment or career advancement within the organization post-internship/externship can help you understand the potential long-term benefits of the experience and plan your career trajectory.
