January 14, 2019

Local businesses looking to boost their workforce this summer now have an additional talent pool to draw from, thanks to a new internship program at Medicine Hat College (MHC).

Created by MHC’s business department and student employment and career centre, the internship program is open to students who have completed two years in the business diploma program and are currently enrolled in the first year of the collaborative Bachelor of Business Administration program offered on-site through Mount Royal University.

Internships provide students with opportunities to recognize career pathways, build relationships, and enhance their resume experience, while employers can preview candidates, increase productivity and bring new perspective to their operations.

“Our goal is for students to gain first-hand experience in their respective fields and apply the knowledge they have acquired in the classroom to a professional setting,” explains Karl Schwonik, associate dean of business at MHC. “The business community has always been very supportive of our students and we look forward to the possibilities this internship program will create.”

To support employers, the Department of Business will prepare all candidates for a competitive interview process and consult with employers about monitoring and evaluation procedures. In return, employers are required to provide a safe working environment, compensation at minimum wage or above, and guaranteed employment of 30 – 35 hours per week for 12 – 16 weeks between the months of May and August.

“Education is a shared endeavour,” says Schwonik. “Our internship program provides an opportunity for the college and community to work together to build future leaders.”

The application process is open until Feb. 1, 2019. Application forms are available online at www.mhc.ab.ca/BBAinternship. For more information, please contact Karl Schwonik, associate dean of business, or Shelly Drefs, career services assistant.