Externship Overview

• An externship is mandatory for all Computer Graphic Design and Dynamic Web students to graduate.
• It is up to the student to find an externship. Do not ask the Externship Chair for an externship. Occasionally, employers contact SCTD requesting externs. The Externship Chairman will connect employers with students on a case by case basis. If you are qualified for a position, have good attendance, meet deadlines etc. you may be contacted for consideration.
• The purpose of the externship is to expose the student to an actual working environment with supervision, work flow, and jobs. This gives our graduates a foot in the door when seeking out their first job in their chosen career.
• The extern must work at least 90 hours for an employer. The employer evaluates the student which translates to his/her externship course grade.
• The work schedule is worked out between the student and employer.
• Payment for work is not required. The student gets credit hours towards his/her graduation.

The Difference Between an Externship & Freelance Work

There are differences between an externship and freelance work.

• Environment: An extern should work in the employer’s work environment, exposing him/her to the setting, equipment, and other graphic professionals.
• Supervision: An extern should be supervised by a graphic professional who can guide and teach. If the employer/supervisor isn't a graphic professional and is relying on the student's knowledge to produce graphic content, then the work is considered freelance.
• Computer & Software: The employer should supply the extern with a computer and the necessary software. If the employer needs the student to supply these then the work is considered freelance.
•  Time &. Job: An extern is required to fulfill 90 hours. If the employer would like to retain the student longer than 90 hours then an agreement must be made between the student and employer. SCTD is no longer involved past the 90 hours. Most employers who want to retain the student will pay him/her to stay on the job. An employer needs to insure that the extern can be employed for the full 90 hours.
• Student Qualifications: A student should be in his/her 5th or 6th quarter. Exceptions can be made for students who are advanced and have the capability to fulfill the specific job requirements. This is up to the discretion of the Externship Chairman.

Freelance Overview

Employment is considered freelance when the employer needs a task or job completed that is outside the employer’s own ability and the employer is relying on the student’s knowledge, computer, and software. Freelance is solely between the employer and student for hire. SCTD isn't involved or liable in any way.

• Experience: The student gains experience through freelance and is able to list this as experience on his/her resume. Students learn a lot by freelancing but have to do so by themselves. While many instructors are willing to help, SCTD is not obligated in any way.
• Payment: Almost all freelance work is paid, but at a cheaper price than the industry standard. A cheaper rate lessens the student’s liability if he/she encounters problems outside his/her knowledge or ability. Obviously employers benefit by saving money.
• Student Qualifications: Usually this position is filled with advanced students or new graphic design graduates.

Contacts

Externship Chair:
Tom Willis,
twillis@sctd.edu

Career Services Director:
Sam A. Mannino,
smannino@sctd.edu