Intern

:For information about a medical intern, see the article on Medical residency.

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In North America, an intern is one who works in a temporary position with an emphasis on education rather than merely employment, making it similar in some respects to an apprenticeship. Interns are usually college or university students or other young adults and can also be adults later in life seeing skills for a new career.

Related Topics:
North America - Education - Employment - Apprenticeship

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An internship may be either paid or unpaid (in the form of stipend), with paid internships being most common in the medical, science, engineering, and technology fields. Internship positions are available from businesses, government departments, nonprofit groups and organizations.

Related Topics:
Stipend - Science - Engineering - Technology

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Internships offer benefits that may include instruction and mentorship; work experience; networking opportunities; and a verbal or written letter of reference. Ideally, the employer has thought carefully about these benefits and described them in the posting. It is also up to the applicant to research or ask about the details of the situation.

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To find a suitable match, the hiring process is just as important as with permanent work. The job description should clearly describe the position, background information, expectations, benefits, and how to apply. It should either ask for a cover letter and resume, or provide an application form. The interview and reference check are equally important. To avoid surprises for either party, it is important to maintain clear and honest communication of both the employer's needs and expectations -- and the potential intern's.

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In the context of medical education, an intern is a person who has finished medical school and passed Step 1 of the USMLE. An intern in the medical field has an MD but does not have a full license to practice medicine in the US. The internship lasts one year and usually begins in July. Internships can be in the fields of pediatrics, general medicine, and surgery. After a physician has completed an internship, and steps 2 and 3 of the USMLE, he or she can practice general medicine. However, the majority of physicians complete a medical residency over 2-7 years depending on the specialty.

Related Topics:
USMLE - Pediatrics - General medicine - Surgery - Medical residency

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The word can also be used as a verb, e.g. "Hendrik interned at Pinnacle Systems this summer."

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