I would say very important.  But I would say that what you were actually doing in your internship is more important than the size of the company you were at. 

Here's a scenario: I am working with 2 candidates that went to the same school and have the same degree, and have similar GPA's.  One interned at a huge company but was making copies and getting coffee.  The other was at a small mom and pop shop and was working with plans, taking trips to the field, doing design work and truly using their degree.  Well, which person would you want to hire?

I'll take a guess and say you probably picked the second candidate.  Education is important.  Experience is just as important.

Thanks for the lesson on what to watch out for when going after an internship.

David Perrings

Although companies (especially the small ones) do not necessarily advertise internships, they would certainly consider giving you one if you contacted them. Don't be shy! Call around and ask or attend ASCE events and ask. And if someone says email me your resume, DO IT! Good luck!

I think internships are very important for both the intern and the potential employer. It's a chance for both parties to "date" and see if they like the other. Keep in mind that you're not only assessing the technical capibilities and potential of the intern, but also both parties should be evaluating the cultural "fit". Does the intern like the future co-workers? Does the inten show the same interests in learning that the company expects from an employee, etc...

The companies that have structured internship programs are more likely to provide a rewarding experience for the intern, and allow the company to objectively evaluate the interns that are working with them, rather than leaving it to the personal opinion of one or two staff people assigned to working with the individual intern.