With the fall semester progressively winding down and spring classes around the corner, upperclassmen students at William Peace University are conscientiously preparing to spend their spring semester or summer break participating in an internship, volunteering, or studying abroad.
Through on-campus resources such as the career services center, WPU students can receive internship advice and essential information to better cultivate their resumes and skills for future careers.
“It is our duty to make sure that our students are well prepared for life after graduation,” said WPU Director of Career Services, Shelly Hoover-Plonk. .
WPU has instituted immersive learning opportunities by incorporating internships as a requirement to the curriculum. This not only gives an advantage in preparing for a career, but in a competitive job market.
“The great thing is that here at WPU, every student is given access to the College Central Network where they can search for jobs and or internships.”
Students are encouraged to take advantage of the Career Services Center. When it comes to the daunting task of finding out careers, they’re always there to help.
“Based on the several skills you foster during your major, there are a lot of opportunities to choose from after graduation,” said WPU Assistant Director of Career Services, Julie Cline. “Not sure what you want to do? We will guide you every step of the way.”
For those majoring in art, the possibilities are endless when it comes to finding an internship, especially near the campus.
According to the university’s website, recent WPU internships include the North Carolina Theatre, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, North Carolina Art Museum, Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh Little Theatre, and Opera House of Wilmington.
Xinmeng Sun, WPU rising senior, has laid the foundations of her journey to her professional art career.
“As of right now, I am a volunteer at the North Carolina Art Museum and the African textile Lab,” said Sun. “I just started this October, so everything to me is fresh.”
Volunteering can help students see practical applications for what they learn in the classroom that can ultimately lead to applying for an internship prior to graduation.
“I will be exploring internship opportunities coming this spring,” said Sun.
The experience with the NC Museum of Art and African Textile lab has not only provided what she was looking for in a career, but she also gained personal growth.
“Working with this team of awesome and diverse people has helped me grow. I’ve learned so much about myself,” said Sun. “I enjoyed engaging with the staff and people about art. They really gave me sunshine and power.”
This learning experience opens up opportunities for students to learn about what it is like to be in a job that is related to their studies while at WPU.
Anthony Cooper, another rising WPU senior who’s studying theatre shares thoughts with his fellow art majors.
“Art has truly made me the person that I am today,” said Cooper. “I’ve gotten the opportunity to tell so many beautiful and complex stories that inspire others.”
Cooper prepares to apply for an internship position next year.
“I do plan on taking part in a performing arts internship this spring. I am still looking for different show auditions and tech opportunities in the area.”
Whether you are an aspiring clinical researcher, artist, or an aspiring elementary teacher, there is no better way to get hands-on learning and to gain professional experiences. Struggling to find an internship? It’s not too late. Visit Dr. Plonk and Mrs. Cline at the career services center to find your calling today.