Student-Employer Relationship

Students should discuss concerns related to COVID-19 with their employer and family.  Should a student accept an on-site internship, they do so at their own risk and should adhere to COVID-19 state directives and CDC guidelines. 
 
Because of the number and wide-ranging location of internship sites, Engineering Career Services and The Ohio State University do not assume responsibility for the many logistical and practical considerations that may be involved with the work experience. Even though we do our very best to vet positions posted in Handshake, the participating student must carefully review and assume responsibility for the conditions and risks associated with their work.  Please contact ECS if you have problems with your employer or work assignment.

Communication

While on campus, it is your responsibility to keep in contact with your employer to assure your return for subsequent work periods. You are also responsible for knowing the dates the subsequent work assignments will begin and end.  Your employer counts on you to keep your commitment. 

Workplace Issues

If you become dissatisfied with your work assignment, it is up to you to discuss this concern with your immediate supervisor and/or the employer's human resources contact. If you are still experiencing dissatisfaction with your work, contact ECS.

Engineering Career Services and The Ohio State University is committed to equal opportunity and eliminating discrimination.  This commitment is both a moral imperative consistent with an intellectual community that celebrates individual differences and diversity, as well as a matter of law. Ohio State does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, military status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status in its programs, activities, employment and admission.

Our expectation is that our students will feel safe and comfortable at their work site. If you experience any concerns during your internship or co-op, including concerns related to discrimination, harassment, or misconduct, know that there are resources available to help you.

What do I do if I have concerns during my internship or co-op?

For your safety and well-being, we encourage you to address the problem as soon as possible as opposed to waiting until the end of the term.  Your options may include the following:

  • Handle the situation independently
    • In some situations it may be appropriate to speak up to the offender and tell them that their behavior is inappropriate
  • Talk to your supervisor and/or human resources at the company
    • Letting your supervisor know of the situation can help, as he/she can help mitigate the problem.  If speaking to your supervisor about the incident is not an option, go to your human resources contact
  • Contact ECS
    • We are here to support and guide you if there are any concerns or problems with your experience.  We are happy to help you contact and have a conversation with human resources at the company. If you are enrolled in ENGR 4191 for the semester and we agree there is a need for you to exit your employment early, you will not be penalized in the class
  • Contact The Ohio State University Title IX office
    • This office is dedicated to supporting victims of sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking.  They can answer questions regarding privacy, confidentiality, options, and provide additional resources.  The Title IX website contains a full list of resources and support options.  If there is an immediate risk to health or safety, please dial 911. 

A negative work experience may leave you concerned as to how to speak to future employers about what you accomplished and learned at that particular job. An ECS advisor can help you draft your resume and prepare for interview questions, focusing on the positive.

Please know that ECS is here to support you!

Problems with your Co-op?

Please contact:

Co-op & Internship Program Manager
Katy Arenschield

Arenschield.4@osu.edu
614-247-7147

RESOURCES

Below are resources at Ohio State if you encounter discrimination or harassment on the job.

Student Advocacy Center
614-292-1111
advocacy@osu.edu

Student Legal Services
614-247-5853
studentlegal@osu.edu

The Ohio State University Title IX office
614-247-5838
titleix@osu.edu

Counseling and Consultation Services
614-688-5766
sl-ccs@osu.edu