CDIP Sponsor FAQs
What is Career Discovery In Practice?
Career Discovery In Practice (“CDIP”) is a job shadow program which provides students the opportunity to see firsthand what it is like to work as a professional in a career they are interested in pursuing. Students spend time observing and working with employers to gain insight into careers.
How do I register for the program?
Sponsor registration for this year’s program is now closed. If you are a Bates alum or parent of a current student and would like to participate in next year’s program, please check back here in August 2013 or contact Carol Ellison at cellison@bates.edu.
What do students do during a job shadow?
It depends upon the Sponsor and the field of work. Interns may:
- Take a tour
- Conduct informational interviews with people in various specialties and different levels
- Review company literature
- Sit in on meetings
- Assist with tasks
- Ask questions about the field, the organization, training, coursework and career paths
- Assist with actual projects (research, report writing, etc.)
What should I expect from my student?
The Sponsor should expect the student to arrive on time, appropriately dressed and ready to spend the day learning, observing and asking questions. Since the program is designed to provide students exposure to a field, it is unlikely that the student will have relevant job experience. Sponsors should keep in mind that the intern is not a “temp” and therefore should not simply be assigned to clerical tasks throughout the day. Students value the opportunity to perform meaningful tasks which give them insight into a field.
What should I expect a student’s substantive knowledge of my field will be?
Unlike a job or internship, students with no formal substantive professional experience are encouraged to apply. We hope you will introduce them to the benefits and challenges of your chosen field.
If I volunteer, am I guaranteed a student?
A match is not guaranteed due to the number of factors that go into selection and matching. However, if you are not matched with a student, there are still many valuable ways for you to offer career assistance including providing internship and job opportunities and conversing with students via phone or email about your occupation or career field. For information, please contact the Bates Career Development Center at bcdc@bates.edu or 207-786-6232.
What is the selection process?
- After you register online, the information about your job shadow will be available for students to view and apply to beginning September 19.
- Students may apply for up to 3 job shadow opportunities by uploading a resume and a statement of interest. Please note that students are asked to submit a brief statement, not a formal cover letter.
- On or about October 18, sponsors whose job shadows have drawn student interest will receive a link via email. The link will allow you to go online to view the application materials and rank your preferences. Ranking must be completed by October 25.
- An algorithm will be used to match sponsors and students.
- If you are matched, you will be notified by email on or about November 9.
- Students are responsible for contacting their hosts by November 16 and scheduling a mutually convenient time for the job shadow.
What are the job shadow dates?
The sponsor and student will pick a mutually convenient date between November 19, 2012 and May 24, 2013.
Am I expected to reimburse the student in any way?
The job shadow is unpaid. Students are responsible for their own transportation, accommodation and food costs and arrangements.
What if I want to provide housing for the student?
Although not required, many sponsors are able to provide accommodations for students in their homes and find that they enjoy the experience. If this is not possible, students make their own arrangements for room and board.
How long is a job shadow?
It may last 1 or 2 days. At the sponsor’s discretion, it may last up to 5 days, but this is not generally recommended. In most situations, 1 day will be sufficient.
Must I consider the student to be a potential employee?
No. CDIP is not about hiring students for a job or internship. It is permissible, however, to inquire about their interest in any internships or jobs that your organization may offer. The Sponsor may keep in contact with the intern upon completion of CDIP.
What are the important dates?
- August 24: Sponsor deadline to register (Class of 2016 Parents may register through September 7)
- September 19 – October 10 @ noon: Students apply for internships
- October 18 – October 25: Sponsors receive an email link to view information about students applying for their internship, and rank preferences.
- November 9: Sponsors notified of matches
- November 16: Student deadline to contact Sponsor to arrange a date for the CDIP
- November 19, 2012 – May 24, 2013: CDIPs occur
Questions?
Please contact Nancy Gibson at ngibson@bates.edu or Carol Ellison at cellison@bates.edu or 207-786-6232.
