SIU Extern Program

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Extern Program

Established by the SIU Alumni Association in 1984, the Extern Program provides students with professional experience in their chosen career fields. Each year nearly 200 SIU students complete externships throughout the United States. Students are matched with SIU alumni and friends of SIUC during spring break and apply skills learned in the classroom in a professional work environment. The Extern Program enhances studentsí college education and helps them clarify their career objectives and goals.

Why participate in the Extern program as a student?
-You can gain invaluable real world experience from professionals in your field.
-Have experience that directly correlates to your major before you graduate.
-Learn about different aspects of an industry before you enter the work force.
-You'll have an edge on other graduates applying for jobs!

"The people at Sentinel Technologies were a very personable group. They showed me a lot of things you canít learn in the classroom. I know this is what I want to do now."

- Daniel Schmitt, Student, Information Systems Technologies

Why be an Extern sponsor?
- Sponsoring an extern(s) gives alumni and friends a unique connection to SIU.
- Sponsorship is an inexpensive, yet invaluable way to support SIU and its students.
- By sharing your expertise with students, you directly contribute to the quality of education and career development of an SIU student.
- Sponsoring is an excellent opportunity to ascertain the capability of SIU graduates that will soon be entering the job market.

"This is the third year participating in the Extern Program, and the Program just keeps getting better and better! We are very pleased with the extern students from SIU and the Extern Program Administration!"

- Steve Goepfert, Sponsor, Continental Airlines

For more information contact the Extern Coordinator, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 618-453-2417.

If you have questions about the Studies Programs, please contact Krissi Geary-Boehm, MCMA Internship Coordinator, at 618-453-8637 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Department of Cinema and Photography



Visit the Department of Cinema and Photography Website
Offers undergraduate and graduate courses in the history, theory, criticism, and production of cinema, photography, and digital arts. Our educational orientation is a holistic, arts and humanities based understanding of media as social and cultural practice.

Department of Radio-Television



Visit the SIU Department of Radio-Television Website
Offering a combination of theoretical and practical hands-on opportunities such as radio stations, broadcast television, and alt.news.

School of Journalism



Visit the SIU School of Journalism Website
The SoJ combines a broad exposure to the liberal arts with a detailed understanding of journalism in modern society.

Graduate Studies



Visit the SIU MCMA Graduate Studies Website
The MCMA Graduate Studies Program is a flexible, college-wide program that emphasizes a cross-disciplinary approach where intellectual and creative diversity are recognized as integral to artistic and scholastic excellence.