A. It is the intent of the Legislature that the Board of Trustees for Oklahoma State University/Tulsa develop and implement a Technology Intern Partner Program. The purpose of the Program shall be to facilitate a positive relationship between the academic and business sector while providing valuable, hands-on experiences for students. In addition the Program will provide an additional method for introducing students to career opportunities in technology-based companies.

B. The benefits of the Technology Intern Partner Program are as follows:

1. Enhances classroom learning for the student by integrating academic curriculum and real-world work experience;

2. Assists students in career decision making through on-the-job experience in a chosen field;

3. Improves after graduation job opportunities for students by giving the student valuable work experience and contact with potential employers;

4. Teaches students valuable job search skills such as career assessments, resume writing, and interviewing techniques; and

5. Promotes the lifelong learning process of integrating work and learning, and enhances workplace skills in occupational, analytical, and teamwork performance.

C. It is further the intent of the Legislature that the Technology Intern Partner Program shall provide internships for eligible students with technology-based companies. One-half of the funding for the internships shall be provided by the University and one-half by the participating companies. The Board of Trustees should establish criteria and procedures for implementation and operation of the Program. The Board may decline to accept any such funding it deems inappropriate, including funding amounts the Board is unable to match.

Added by Laws 2002, c. 437, § 4, eff. July 1, 2002.