FAQ Questions

How are interns selected?

Interns are typically referred to the program through their schools, a family member, friend, or their Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and apply in the winter and spring in the year prior to entering the program. A team representative of all the partners: Project SEARCH Coordinator, Project SEARCH Skills Trainer, host business liaison, Career Advantage Director, VR Counselor, and other appropriate personnel carry out the selection process. The process includes tours, student interviews, and scoring on a rubric related to entrance considerations.

Do I have to apply?

Yes. Applications are taken starting at the beginning of the school year, and up until the March cut-off date. Interviews are held at the end of March and the beginning of April.

Do interns get paid?

Yes! While most sites are unpaid internships, South Dakota Project SEARCH Sites offer a monthly stipend for their students.

Do I get to choose my rotations?

Your student's choice is one of the driving factors that determine their rotation placement. We combine their choice along with the availability of rotation and the student’s skills to try and create the perfect fit!

What rotations are available?

Rotations vary from year to year, depending on student interest. Rotation sites include food service, SDSU Wellness Center, and University Housing. If it is a rotation we have not had in the past, there is always the possibility of creating one. Our students have the possibility of working off-site at Falcon Plastics or other approved businesses.  

Do I have to rotate to other internships if I like the first one?

Project SEARCH is designed to allow student interns to have a variety of work experiences, explore different careers, and learn competitive work skills in a wide range of settings. This process helps to refine each student intern’s career goal and to prepare each student intern for employment. However, if a student intern can gain additional marketable skills and if there is a strong possibility of being offered a competitive job, it is often productive for that individual to do multiple rotations at a single internship site.

What do I wear during my day at Project SEARCH?

Interns' uniform depends on their worksite. At a minimum, interns must wear slip-resistant shoes(food service) and black pants. A shirt will be provided by the worksite.  Interns must follow the dress code of the job site (such as black pants and slip-resistant shoes). Closed-toe shoes and nice pants are required. Shorts, sweatpants, T-shirts, tank tops, camisoles, sandals, and sweatshirts are not allowed unless your direct supervisor has issued or approved the attire. Hair must be clean, cut, groomed, and maintained, antiperspirant, deodorant, and products that eliminate body odor MUST be used. Bathing and teeth brushing should occur daily.  Dressing in layered clothing is recommended so that interns are prepared for the various indoor and outdoor temperature changes they may experience over the course of a day.