An internship supervisor is more than an assignment manager. Supervisors serve as teachers, coaches, and professional guides who help students understand the workplace and develop through experience.
Before the internship
Confirm first-day instructions, schedule, location, and required documentation; prepare workspace and access; identify initial projects; notify relevant staff; and plan orientation and training.
During orientation
Explain the organization’s mission and structure, the student’s role, responsibilities and goals, workplace expectations, communication practices and preferences, confidentiality and security requirements, safety and conduct policies, and available sources of support, as applicable.
At the beginning of the experience
Clarify responsibilities, major projects, deadlines, standards for successful work, learning goals, preferred communication, feedback practices, and how the student should ask questions or request additional work.
Throughout the internship
Meet individually with the student on a consistent basis, preferably weekly. Review priorities, answer questions, discuss challenges, provide feedback, revisit goals, and identify new developmental opportunities.
When giving feedback
Be timely, specific, respectful, and actionable. Explain strengths as well as areas for improvement. Address concerns early enough for the student to make changes. Complete UCDC Supervisor Midterm Evaluation shared via email.
To support professional development
When feasible, include the student in relevant meetings, events, briefings, site visits, informational conversations, and opportunities to learn about careers and functions beyond the immediate assignment.
When problems arise
Discuss concerns directly with the student when appropriate; provide examples and clear expectations; document significant issues; allow reasonable opportunity for improvement; and contact UCDC early with concerns about performance or behavior.
At the end of the internship
Complete the UCDC Supervisor Final Evaluation shared via email, review it with the student, discuss accomplishments and continued development, ensure appropriate project transition, and recognize the student’s contributions.