Experiential learning is an integral part of academic programs, providing students with practical experience in their chosen fields. This study focuses on students enrolled in the School of Journalism and Media Studies at San Diego State University who participated in internships for academic credit between 2021 and 2024. Specifically, we investigate the impact of internship type (remote, hybrid, or in-person) on several key outcomes. Satisfaction Levels: We assess whether students working remotely experience different levels of satisfaction compared to those working in-person or in hybrid roles. Understanding satisfaction can provide insights into the effectiveness of remote work arrangements. Workplace Integration and Inclusion: We explore whether students’ sense of workplace integration and inclusion varies based on their internship type. Factors such as communication, collaboration, and social connectedness play a crucial role in students’ overall experience. Post-Internship Employment: Additionally, we examine whether the type of internship influences students’ chances of being hired by the organization where they completed their internship. This information is valuable for both students and employers. Our dataset includes responses from 123 students, allowing us to analyze trends and draw meaningful conclusions. By comparing the experiences of remote, hybrid, and in-person interns, we aim to provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing internship programs in journalism and media studies. As faculty members, we seek to contribute to the ongoing dialogue about effective experiential learning opportunities and their impact on student success.

Authors:
Christie Ritter, San Diego State University, United States
Alanna Peebles, San Diego State University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Christie Ritter is a lecturer and internship coordinator in the School of Journalism and Media Studies at San Diego State University.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christieritter/

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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