Extern Program

Thank you for considering participation in our Extern Program! For more than 40 years, SIU has provided the Extern Program as a unique professional development experience for students. To date, more than 4,000 Salukis have worked with companies and organizations around the nation to gain first-hand experience.

The Extern Program is an unpaid one-week career preparation and exploration experience for current students. Its purpose is to provide you with professional experience relating to your academic/career interests or can assist you in exploring and determining what career field you’d like to go into after graduation. Students are matched with employers, often SIU alumni or supporters of the University, in a variety of careers and industries across the country. You will apply skills learned in the classroom in a professional work environment. The program is individualized and enhances your education. Benefits received are invaluable. Not only will you gain real world career knowledge and experience, but you will also expand your professional network. Some students find their externship has led them to find a lifelong mentor, an internship, and even a full-time employment offer.

The Extern Program takes place during SIU’s spring break, March 9-17, 2025. Students apply through Hire a Saluki to any Externship they are interested in, but may only accept one. The participating Alumni will choose which students they want to participate in their opportunity, so make sure your application materials are competitive!  The Career Development Center is happy to help you make sure your resume and other application materials represent you in the best light.

Please read the student application requirements and steps closely below.

How to Become an Extern:

The Extern Program is open to most majors, but please be sure to view the eligibility requirements listed below if you are interested in this experience.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Be in at least your third semester of undergraduate studies at SIU, or a transfer student. Master’s and JD students may also apply. Freshmen and PhD students are ineligible.
2. Be enrolled full-time at SIU during the application process and during the externship. Students graduating prior to the program's start date are ineligible.
3. Complete the online application which requires a resume and a cover letter written specifically for the program to be submitted.
4. Have a 3.0 GPA.*
   1. *Please do not let this requirement stop you from applying. If you have questions and/or concerns, please contact the Career Development Center for guidance.