Interdisciplinary Internships Between Eastern New Mexico University and Various State Agencies.

In 1969 Eastern New Mexico University's College of Education developed a program of one-semester internships at a variety of state facilities including mental institutions, rehabilitation centers, and hospitals. Coupled with the internships, one-week institutes were designed for students wanting some exposure to the facility but not wanting to spend an entire semester there. Students earn a full semester credit and academic grades for the internship and supporting college and facility courses. The employees of the facility, all with proper credentials, conduct seminars, counseling sessions, etc. and make sure all academic requirements are met. Periodic visits are made to all interns on a regular basis. Each intern is required to keep a daily log, and to write an evaluation of the experience. Program objectives are summarized as follows: a) to give students practical "relevant" educational experiences, b) to put theory into practice, c) to perform a service to New Mexico state agencies, d) to allow students an experience that will allow them to make an intelligent career choice, e) to increase the student's self-confidence prior to getting on the job, f) to train a greater number of students in the area of helping services so that state facilities may be adequately staffed, g) to help less fortunate individuals, and h) to enrich the total college learning experience. Further information on personnel, faculty, budget, and evaluation is included. (Author/MJM)