STEP 4: Prepare Questions to Ask Your Host

Based upon the results of your research of the occupation, prepare questions to ask your host during your externship. Try to make them open-ended questions, meaning those that can be answered other than by "yes" or "no," to give your host the opportunity to give you more detailed and richer responses.

Below is a list of questions that may give you some ideas for your own interview. Be sure to tailor your own questions to fit your particular interests and your host's field/occupation.

• What is a typical day in the life of a _________?


• How did you get interested in this occupation?


• What do you like about your occupation?


• What do you dislike about your occupation?


• What is a typical career path in this occupation?


• What kinds of degrees/credentials are required for entry into this type of work?


• What type of prior experience is necessary?


• Ask him/her to describe a typical entry-level position.


• What is the projected growth in this occupation?


• What skills are the most essential for effective job performance?


• What are the toughest problems he/she deals with?


• What types of clubs or organizations would you recommend?


• What is the organizational structure and where does your position fit in the organization?


• If you were going to hire a new entry-level person, what would a highly qualified candidate be like?


• What are the major challenges/problems that your organization is facing in the coming year?


• What type of training does the company provide?


• What is the current state of the industry and what is the outlook for jobs and career growth?
• Are there any academic courses or skills you recommend that would better prepare me for a job in the industry?

CRC's Externship "Print & Go" Packet