1.  Do I have to attend an information session?
No. Externship information sessions will be offered, but are not mandatory for participation in the Externship Program. 

2.  How long does an externship last?
Each employer has a different itinerary; but in most cases, there is an entire day of planned activities.
The average Externship lasts around 6 hours.

3.  Will I be interviewed?
No, the Externship visit is not a formal recruiting event. It is an opportunity to learn more about the employer and the field of engineering without the stress of an interview.

4.  Will an externship lead to a co-op or internship? 
Not necessarily. We encourage you to bring a resume and network with employer representatives; however, this is not intended to be a job-searching event.

5.  How do I get to the employer site?
The employer will provide directions, but you will need to provide your own transportation to and from the site.

6.  What do I wear to an extern visit?
Dress business casual.
For men, business casual means nice slacks or khaki pants, a long sleeve button down shirt, and dress shoes. 
For women, business casual means a professional blouse and slacks or skirt.

7.  Am I guaranteed an externship slot?
Yes and no. Although we do our best to enlist employers from each engineering discipline and multiple cities, not everyone will be accommodated with an employer in their preferred major or location. 

Employers selections are on a first-come, first-served basis. Students who frequently check their emails and promptly act on them have a better chance of getting an externship with their top choice. 

Keep in mind that even if you are not able to select your top choice of employer, you will still benefit from visiting another employer and learning about how engineering is applied in the corporate world.

8.  Are there any consequences if I sign up to visit an employer, then do not attend on the day of the externship?
Yes, if you do not show up for your externship and fail to contact the employer and the Externship Coordinator well in advance, you will receive a strike on your ECAC account. This will bar you from using the system until you come in and speak with a counselor. No-showing is not fair to the employer, who spends time and money preparing for you. Nor is it fair to other students who may have wanted to visit that employer.

Remember, when you choose an employer to visit, you are obligated to participate. They will be expecting you, and they will communicate with ECAC if you do not show.