(Supervised) Practice Makes Progress: Student Meaning-Making and Development Through Internship Experiences

• In Event: Intention Versus Impact: Influences of (Co)Curricular Design on Student Development

Abstract

Graduate students (particularly master’s students) in student affairs preparation programs frequently engage in internships. While this practice is common, scholars have limited understanding of the learning that occurs during the process, particularly how graduate students make meaning of their experiences in the moment. Using content analysis of students’ written work, the authors of this paper aim to address this gap in the literature. Following analysis, a total of six distinct themes emerged; (1) connecting theory to practice, (2) reframing challenges as opportunities, (3) navigating transition(s) as part of the internship experience, (4) importance of prioritizing personal well-being, (5) revelatory comparisons highlighted throughout the internship experience, and (6) considering the future professional me.

Authors

• Matthew Joseph Smith, Valdosta State University

• Katie Burr, University of Georgia - Athens, GA

• Laura A. Dean, University of Georgia