Newark's Internship Excellence Lab
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 (8:30 AM - 3:30 PM) (EDT)
Description
About The Lab
Build better internships — by design, not default.
The Internship Excellence Lab is a hands-on workshop that gives you the tools, strategies, and structure to design and strengthen internships that actually work. Whether you're just getting started or ready to level up, this experience will help you attract top talent, support interns intentionally, and deliver real impact for your organization.
Agenda
We kick off the day with a light breakfast and informal networking to create early connections. You'll check in, meet your "Breakfast Buddy," and have a chance to connect with the institution hosting the workshop — a warm and welcoming start to a full day of learning.
The morning begins with an overview of the 5 Pillars of Internship Excellence and two deep-dive modules on Culture Immersion and Meaningful Work. Through interactive discussion and peer learning, you’ll reflect on how your current program brings interns into your culture and assigns purposeful projects. The session wraps with Blueprint Lab Part 1, where you’ll begin applying what you’ve learned to your own strategy.
Take a break, recharge, and keep the conversation going over a catered lunch. This is a great time to connect with attendees from other industries and ask questions at the optional Q&A table provided by the host institution.
In the afternoon, we explore Skill Development, Intentional Support, and Generational Alignment — three critical elements for creating internships that are both effective and future-ready. You’ll gain insight into how to support intern learning, structure mentorship, and align with Gen Z values. The session ends with Blueprint Lab Part 2, where you’ll refine your plan, share ideas with peers, and commit to action steps that will elevate your program.
We'll use this final session to answer remaining questions, capture a group photo to commemorate our time together, and review key takeaways along with suggested next steps for applying what you’ve learned.
What You'll Gain
Full-day interactive workshop
Custom Blueprint Workbook
Peer learning with professionals across industries
Tools and templates to take home
6 SHRM Continuing Education Credits
Continental breakfast, catered lunch, and refreshments throughout the day

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