The timing of the preparation may vary on an individual basis, but the bulk of the student preparation usually takes place in the March-April time frame.  Any number of preparatory events will generally occur over that period, for example:  a classroom session with speakers from the workplace, a pre-internship mock interview with local business leaders, a breakfast or luncheon with business leaders, a formal pre-internship preparation day with speakers, interviewers, career counselors, and other such mentors, etc.  Events such as these serve two purposes: they begin to tie-in the classroom learning to a real world event (the paid internship), and they help the student to gain an appreciation for the magnitude and importance of the internship experience.  Such events can also provide a venue for some “scouting” by business leaders who wish to identify internship candidates early in the process and make sure they are interviewed.

Paid internship positions are offered to “eligible” students.  The term “eligible” will be defined by the individual school program, not by NAF.  Some school eligibility requirements might include: the maintenance of a certain grade point average or attendance level, a demonstrated sensitivity to the usage of appropriate language and behavior, a consistent adherence to appropriate dress requirements, etc.  Still, other factors may prevent some students from securing an internship position.  Some may not be ready emotionally for the responsibility; others may perform poorly during the interview process or may simply not be selected by an internship provider.  Such instances should be looked upon as excellent opportunities for both Academy Directors and business leaders to counsel the student, provide some constructive criticism and feedback, and suggest an alternative internship timeframe  (possibly during the senior year).  While the summer between the junior and senior year may be the ideal timeframe, NAF recognizes that the internship period must be flexible so as to provide the greatest number of students with appropriate, quality, paid experiences.

Most employers are very comfortable teaching their interns and new employees the technical skills necessary to perform the job.  This means that while work experience and educational background are important, the employer may not be too concerned about a candidate’s technical level.  However, employers consistently emphasize the importance of  “soft or employability skills.”  These are the skills that a prospective employer may have trouble teaching.  Examples of “soft skills” include integrity, ability to work in teams, honesty, time management, work ethic, etc.  The Academy classes will have already discussed many of these areas.  If the student has any questions about these “soft skills,” he/she should consult with the Academy Director or teacher prior to the internship interview.

Since this is a business interview, appropriate business attire is preferred.  This would include a dark suit, light shirt, and tie for a male, and a pants suit, blouse and skirt, or other appropriate tailored, conservative attire for a female.  If the student has a question about the appropriateness of a particular outfit, he/she should consult with your Academy Director or teacher.  If the student doesn’t own any appropriate attire for the interview, the teacher should be alerted immediately so he/she can make alternate arrangements.

It is sometimes difficult to get to an internship, especially when there is limited public transportation in the town or city in which you live.  Accepting an internship position at a particular employer may require the use of a personal vehicle—either the student’s own car or another family member’s vehicle.  If this is going to be an issue or present a problem, the teacher or Academy Director should be informed as soon as possible.  Perhaps another arrangement can be made with the employer to provide transportation, or, if not, another internship position closer to the student or in a more convenient location could potentially be secured.  In any case, the student should let the teacher know right away so he/she can work things out.