Your Meaningful & Substantive Internship: A Self-Evaluation Checklist

A Google Doc of this Meaningful & Substantive Internship: A Self-Evaluation Checklist webpage is available for print or preferred reflection method.

Use this checklist to evaluate whether an internship opportunity offers robust experiential learning and aligns with your personal goals. Unchecked items aren’t automatically dealbreakers, but they highlight areas to discuss and explore further before committing. If you’re unsure of the answer, this may indicate you need more clarity from the organization, you may need to engage in  more personal reflection, and/or seek out support from trusted resources like the Loeb Center.  

Part 1: Educational Quality & Structure

Mentorship & Instructional Support

  • Is there a named direct supervisor or mentor responsible for guiding my learning?
  • Are regular, 1-on-1 check-ins built into the schedule to discuss progress and feedback?
  • Is there an onboarding process designed to introduce me to the team, tools, and expectations?

Learning Dynamics & Skill Development

  • Will I be engaged in project-based work rather than strictly routine administrative upkeep?
  • Does the role emphasize hands-on work (“learning by doing”) alongside opportunities to shadow or observe (“learning by observing”)?
  • Will I have opportunities to practice both technical skills and relational skills (like collaboration or strategic communication)?

Context & Reflection

  • Will I gain clear insight into how this organization operates within its broader sector or industry?
  • Are there structured moments for evaluation, such as a mid-summer check-in or a final presentation/reflection?

Part 2: Personal Fit & Meaning

Goals & Curiosity

  • Does this opportunity allow me to test an academic theory, explore a subject of interest, or answer a specific career question?
  • Will this experience help me build or refine skills that I am genuinely curious about right now?

Values & Environment

  • Does the daily work pace and organizational environment align well with my personal values and working style?
  • If this role pushes me out of my comfort zone, does it feel like a supportive, growth-oriented challenge?

Long-Term Value & Discovery

  • Will this experience give me clear insights into what I enjoy (or want to avoid) in future academic or professional paths?
  • Even if this field isn’t my forever path, will the self-knowledge and learning I gain here serve my broader growth

Decision Reflection

  • Mostly checked in both parts: This is a high-quality experience with strong personal fit.
  • Checked for Quality, unchecked for Fit: The opportunity is well-structured, but the subject matter or culture may not align with your current goals. Consider if the opportunity is still one you’d like to pursue. 
  • Checked for Fit, unchecked for Quality: You care deeply about the topic, but the opportunity may lack structure. You may need to ask for more specifics on expectations and have come clarifying conversations. 
  • Need support to determine how to move forward? Advisors are here to help! Make an appointment or email us.

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