The Illini Externship program was created in 1994 as a way to bring University of Illinois alumni and students together in the workplace. Alumni and friends act as sponsors and students shadow them in their fields of interest. Externs gain valuable hands-on experience by learning what isn't available in a classroom setting. Sponsors benefit from the opportunity to guide future professionals and see some of the University's best and brightest students before other companies begin recruiting them.

Externships run for two to five days during the University's spring break, and students are usually matched with sponsors in their hometown or surrounding area. Freshmen, sophomores and juniors of all majors are encouraged to apply. Externships are available in a broad range of fields, including (but not limited to) business, communications, law, medicine, government, education and social services. Externs are responsible for all expenses, including housing, meals and transportation.

In October 2005, the Illini Externship program was highlighted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) as a "best practice" model.

Questions? E-mail the Illini Externship program at illiniexternship@illinois.edu or call 217/333-9829. For more information on career assistance for students, please visit The Career Center at www.careercenter.illinois.edu.

How Can I Become an Illini Extern? 

How Can I Become a Sponsor? 

Sponsor Interest Form