Information for Students

Externship activities

Students in Western Michigan University's Haworth College of Business who participate in an externship will have a unique experience. Some possible activities include the following:

  • Complete short pre-externship assignment requested by employer
  • Observe day-to-day activities in a professional work environment
  • Conduct informational interviews with your professional mentor or other staff members
  • Attend business meetings or lunches
  • Participate in a short-term project
  • Experience various corporate cultures and work environments

Pictured is student Erika HeijlAs an undecided business student, this was the perfect opportunity to explore different majors and companies. Through this program, I visited Stryker, Meijer, SC Johnson and Haworth, Inc. During my visits, I was able to dive into what it would be like to pursue a career in each industry. This program gave me the confidence that I needed to make a decision and move forward in my career.
—Erika Hejl, Food and Consumer Package Goods Marketing Major

Length of externships

The length of each externship will be determined by your professional mentor. A typical externship will range in length from one to three days.

Externship time frame

Most externships will occur during the "hot spot," the period immediately following the conclusion of spring semester, which is usually the first three weeks in May. Professional mentors may wish to select a date outside of this period and will arrange the date directly with the student extern.

Matching process

  • Students will be notified via email of their match or matches on Match Day in March.
  • Once notified, students will have a few days to accept an externship match and select a workshop date. Students must deliver their enrollment form to the career center in person.
  • After delivering the enrollment form, students will complete an online extern profile that will be shared with their professional mentor(s).

Application Information

Program Requirements