Remote Internship Guidelines

As employers explore multiple options to recruit new talent into the workplace, remote internships are a great opportunity for students to gain experience and learn directly from professionals virtually. This experiential education opportunity is set in a location other than a traditional office or professional work environment, and the communication between the employer and their intern takes place via video conferencing, telephone, and email.

This may be your intern’s first time in a remote work experience, requiring additional support in feeling connected and staying motivated. LMU recommends the following guidelines for employers:

Defined Learning Goals

Prior to the internship, students will develop three (3) learning goals, combined of industry-related knowledge, skills, and abilities required for successful career advancement. Supervisors will work with the intern throughout the internship to ensure the intern is on track to meet these goals.

Thorough Onboarding and Orientation

Orientation on the first day – or week – should consist of: meeting other staff members, learning about the organization, reviewing organization-wide communication standards and workplace expectations (including taking required legal breaks, lunches, and system of tracking hours), and reviewing the student’s defined learning goals. This will provide the intern the chance to ask clarifying questions, as this might be their first professional work environment, and is likely their first remote-based position.

Communication & Timely Feedback

Similar to online learning environments, supervisors are encouraged to schedule feedback meetings for a minimum of thirty minutes each week to engage in direct mentorship with the student regarding their progress towards learning outcomes and areas of professional development. This includes an update on expected work activities for the week, outcomes from prior work submissions, and other relevant announcements pertaining to the organization. Communicate all tasks by explaining why the work is important, and how it contributes towards project/department/organization.

Pre-Arranged Schedules

Although working remotely allows for flexibility of the work schedule, supervisors and interns should agree upon a set work schedule per week and per day for projects and meetings.

Organizational Involvement

Supervisors should make an effort to integrate interns into the organization’s work culture. This could include attendance at team meetings, use of company tools and resources, and any other forms of access to staff members (i.e. shadowing or informational interviews).

Reimbursement of Expenses

Students engaged in remote internships should not incur any personal expenses because of the internship’s “remote” status. Any such costs, including the purchase of software and hardware for the purposes of the internship, should be covered by the internship host employer, or alternative arrangements provided to the student prior to starting the internship.