Though students manage internships all year long, summer is the traditional season for finding journalism-related jobs to practice skills learned in the classroom. From TV networks to hometown newspapers, organizations provide learning environments for students.

This summer, more than 80 School of Journalism students and recent graduates are taking on internships. For students who return in the fall, these jobs provide real world experience. For recent grads, some of these positions may lead to permanent jobs.

Marcia Debnam, career services director for the school, says either type of internship offers challenges and rewards. One of the challenges is planning early to apply for and land the internships.

"The deadlines for summer internships begin in October and end in June. It's best not to wait to apply, however, because often the best and most desirable positions will be taken early," she advises.

Finding an internship can be challenging and even intimidating for students, but there are many opportunities. Any student who wants an internship can find one, she says.

"The kind of internship a student lands mostly depends on the skill level required by the employer and the student's ability to prove that he or she is qualified," says Debnam. "There are many other factors, also, such as the student's ability to take an unpaid internship or to take an internship away from home, which can be expensive."

Whether looking for summer or school semester internships, students should contact Debnam for advice and tips on researching jobs, putting together a portfolio and contacting potential employers. They also can log onto the school's career resources Web site to see resume samples and other materials necessary for the job hunt.

The IU Career Development Center and the other career offices on campus offer a wide variety of resources for students who may be interested in career fields other than those associated with the School of Journalism. Students can go to IUCareers.com to look at opportunities other than those in the School of Journalism.

Check out this list of summer interns and their jobs.

Watch this Web site later in the summer for reports from the interns.