QUICK REFERENCE TO COMMON QUESTIONS
1. Do I have to notify the IPP staff when I am working on a co-op/internship assignment? Yes. Each semester you accept a co-op/internship assignment, with the same or a different employer, you must complete an Assignment Acceptance Form.
2. How will the IP Program affect my graduation date?
That depends on the IPP assignment. In some part-time assignments, the IPP position will not delay your graduation. Full-time co-op assignments may delay graduation for a full year.
3. Do I have to work more than one IPP semester?
That depends on the IPP assignment. Internships last for one or two semesters. Co-op recommends a full year, three semesters of experience.
4. Where are IPP assignments located?
Nearly all IPP assignments are in the Dallas area. However, there are positions in many areas of the country.
5. May I have an IPP position wherever I want?
You may specify certain geographical locations, however, in so doing you limit your opportunities for employment. The best experiences are not always in Dallas, Texas or your hometown. The more flexible you are, the better the chances of employment. It you cannot relocate or will not commute 45 minutes to an hour, tell the IPP staff and do not accept interviews if you know you will not accept the position.
7. Do I have to take a position I do not really want?
No. But when you reject a viable IPP position you run the risk of not being placed in the IP Programs. Students are urged to be flexible when considering IPP job options.
8. Am I guaranteed an IPP position?
No. Although every effort is made to find interested students IPP positions, the fact is, not everyone is placed. The IPP staff can only refer your resume; the employers make the final hiring decisions.
9. Will my IPP salary pay for all my college expenses?
Most students are able to pay a substantial part of their education through IPP earnings.
10. Are my wages subject to withholding taxes?
Yes. IPP wages are subject to federal and, where applicable, to state and local income taxes.
11. Who determines my salary?
The employer.
12. Will my financial aid, Social Security income or Veteran’s benefits be affected by IPP wages?
Probably. These are issues you must discuss with the IPP staff and the appropriate campus department to determine the specifics regarding your situation.
13. Is what I do with my IPP position my own business?
No. While on an assignment you are still classified as a student of UTD. Your work performance is a reflection on you, the IPP staff and program, your academic department, the Jonsson School, and UTD. You are expected to perform to the best of your ability and follow all employment policies and regulations. You may not initiate any changes related to your job assignment without the prior approval of the EJS IPP staff.
14. Can I be discharged from an IPP assignment?
Yes. You are treated like any other employee. Employers may discharge a student for any of several reasons: unsatisfactory performance, incompetence, irregular attendance or punctuality, misconduct, or misrepresenting your eligibility and capabilities.
Any student not invited to return to an assignment due to unsatisfactory work performance will be considered discharged from the company.
15. If I have a local assignment may I still participate in UTD activities?
Yes. If registered for the IPP ECSC coursework IPP students are eligible to participate in all campus activities while on assignment. These activities, however, should not interfere with your IPP assignment. Participation in varsity sports requires special NCAA permission.
16. If I have an IPP assignment in the Dallas area, may I continue to live in UTD housing?
Yes, if registered for the IPP ECSC courses or other UTD coursework.
17. If I work outside the Dallas area will I lose my student status?
No. If you register for an ECSC course you maintain your full-time student status at UTD regardless of where your job is located.
18. When working on out-of-town assignments, is the employer responsible for transportation and housing expenses?
No. When students accept out-of-town assignments they are usually responsible for living and transportation expenses. Some employers may cover all or part of these expenses, but this cannot be expected.
19. If I am on an out-of-town assignment, how will I register for classes to be taken the next semester?
Telephone and on-line registration is available for all students. Students are responsible for their own registration. The IPP staff will assist as needed.
20. While on an out-of-town assignment, may I take classes at another university?
Yes. That is possible if you obtain approval from your department prior to leaving UTD and enrolling at the other university.