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Welcome to Project Search!
As a Project Search intern, you are learning important workplace skills that will support your success now and in the future. This handbook outlines training site expectations so everyone can enjoy a safe, respectful, and positive work experience.
Project Search is a learning-focused program. Most workplace concerns are addressed through coaching, mentoring, and support. The goal is always to help interns learn, grow, and succeed.
General Program Expectations
As a Project Search intern, you are expected to:
- Be responsible and dependable
- Treat others with respect
- Follow rules and directions
- Ask questions when you are unsure
Please note that each training site may have additional expectations specific to that location.
Cell Phone Use
What to do:
- Keep your phone put away during training time
- Use your phone only during breaks or when given permission by your supervisor
Examples to avoid:
- Texting, calling, or using social media while training
- Wearing earbuds or headphones unless approved
Arrival and Departure Times
What to do:
- Arrive on time and ready to train
- Clock in and out correctly, if required
- Stay until your scheduled end time
Examples to avoid:
- Arriving late without notifying your supervisor
- Leaving early without approval
Call-In and Absence Procedures
What to do:
- Contact your supervisor as soon as possible if you will be late or absent
- Follow your training site’s call-in procedures
- Communicate clearly and respectfully when calling or messaging
Examples to avoid:
- Missing time without notifying your supervisor
- Asking friends or coworkers to report your absence for you
Dress Code
What to do:
- Wear clean, neat, and appropriate clothing for your job
- Follow any uniform or dress guidelines for your training site
- Practice good personal hygiene
Examples to avoid:
- Wearing clothing that is unsafe, dirty, or inappropriate for the training site
Appropriate Language
What to do:
- Use polite and professional language
- Speak calmly and respectfully
- Ask for help if you are feeling frustrated
Examples to avoid:
- Using swear words, insults, or offensive language
- Yelling, arguing, or making negative comments
Respectful Interactions with Staff
What to do:
- Listen carefully to instructions
- Follow directions from supervisors and staff
- Accept feedback as an opportunity to learn
Examples to avoid:
- Ignoring instructions
- Arguing or refusing to complete assigned tasks
Bullying and Harassment
What to do:
- Treat everyone with kindness and respect
- Speak up or report concerns to a supervisor or Project Search staff
- Help create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment
Examples to avoid:
- Teasing, threatening, or excluding others
- Making hurtful jokes or comments
Violence and Safety
What to do:
- Use safe behaviors at all times
- Report safety concerns immediately
- Walk away and ask for help if you feel upset or overwhelmed
Examples to avoid:
- Hitting, pushing, threatening, or intimidating others
- Bringing weapons or dangerous items to campus
Drugs and Alcohol
What to do:
- Arrive at the training site alert and ready to perform your job safely
- Follow all training site safety rules and policies
Examples to avoid:
- Using, possessing, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol on campus
Following Directions (Insubordination)
What to do:
- Follow reasonable instructions from supervisors
- Ask questions if you do not understand a task
- Share concerns calmly and respectfully Examples to avoid:
- Refusing to complete assigned tasks
- Speaking disrespectfully to supervisors
Coaching and Support
Project Search emphasizes learning and growth.
When concerns arise, individuals are typically supported through:
- Coaching
- Mentoring
- Additional instruction
Discipline is not the first step. Concerns are addressed with the goal of helping individuals improve and succeed. Additional expectations may apply at individual training sites.
UW–Platteville & UW System Policies
All Project Search interns are subject to UW–Platteville and UW System policies, including but not limited to:
- Alcohol and Other Drug Policies
- Code of Ethics
- Consensual Relationships
- Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation
- Equal Employment Opportunity
- Student Employment Policies
- Workplace Conduct Expectations
Interns are expected to follow all applicable university policies while participating in Project Search.
Final Reminder
Project Search is a place to learn, grow, and prepare for future employment.
When you:
- Show up on time
- Try your best
- Treat others with respect
- Ask for help when needed
You are building skills that will help you succeed in the workplace and beyond.