Ferris State University students gain valuable work experience through internships.
Internships also can confirm or redirect career decision-making, provide marketability,
develop people skills and enhance classroom learning. Many academic programs require
one, but the experience is encouraged regardless to provide students with a better
understanding of what will be expected of them in the workplace.
Many students are participating in internships this summer. Meet:
Jonathan Bynum
He is: from Okemos, and preparing for his senior year. “I am currently enrolled in the Criminal Justice Law Enforcement track and will be starting the academy in the fall.”
His Internship/Making a Difference: “My internship is with the Lansing Police Department. They have offered a plethora of different assignments and tasks, other than just road patrol. I have interned with the detective units. I have interned with the jail. I have witnessed first-hand police training as an actor in school shooting scenarios. I have interned with their community services division as well as road along with community police officers assigned to specific sectors. I will also be going to intern at their gun range and as well as their violent crimes unit. I have been very fortunate to learn so many aspects of their department and get an in-depth, first-hand view of what happens in each division. I am making a difference by staying involved, participating when I am asked and taking my opportunity as an Intern to learn and grow as a future police officer.”
How Ferris Helped Him Get His Internship: “Ferris as a brand helped me a ton in securing my internship. Being a Ferris student is top of the line, when it comes to Criminal Justice. The Chief of Police is a Ferris alumnus. I believe the last three were also Ferris alumni. So, the program is well respected and had a lot to do with helping me secure my internship position. We had received valuable instruction in securing an internship with instruction on what to say, what not to say, etc. Ferris’ involvement was huge for me.”
Advice for Students Seeking Internships: “I suggest staying active in the process, apply to multiple businesses or agencies, and most importantly use the Ferris staff; they will help you in any way they can. Law Enforcement students can also come to those who will be in the academy to learn more about the process and we will definitely help you to the best of our abilities.”
Future Plans: “I have begun a pre-hiring process with the Lansing Police Department. I would love to work here.”
Ferris Core Value Jonathan Relates to: Excellence. “Every day, I strive to be excellent in whatever I do whether that be working out, or homework, or even simpler things like making sure I’m doing little things that will make my life easier. I always strive for excellence because I believe with that attitude toward everything you do in life, you will never fail.”