is it an internship?

i’ve recently read quite a few posts on my favorite failblog, craigslist.org, asking for “interns.” these posts generally read something like this example:

Event planning company seeking 1-2 interns to assist with [event] set-up on Saturday, [date]. Your time requirement will only be approximately 2-3 in the afternoon as we get things set-up. Great experience for someone interested in event planning as a future career. Could lead to future paid jobs.

Serious inquiries only please. Thank you!

or

A rising publication is seeking a graphic designer intern who is experienced in the following fields [sic - they mean software]:

1.Adobe InDesign
2.Adobe Photoshop
3.Adobe Illustrator
4.Quark Xpress

Must have at least 2 years experience in the graphic design field. Preferably a college student. The intern is responsible for proofreading, editing, and formatting the finished, editorial Mockup. Note: Must have Adobe InDesign CS5 Program to be considered!! We are looking to fill this position ASAP so only interested candidates need apply!!

This is a non-compensation gig, however, it’s a wonderful chance to get college credit, be a part of an amazing team, meet wonderful people, and see your name in print. If interested, forward your resumes and cover letters to [email].

so we have a couple major factors going here to tip you off these are NOT actaully internships.
1. internships don’t last for 2-3 hours. generally they’ll last about 3 months, maybe more.
2. experience is not required for an internship. in fact, one takes an internship to GAIN experience.

in defense of the second post, they may actually be able to certify the “interns” work to the point of qualifying for college credit… even though students may have to pay for those credits, anyway, and the company may only require that in order to look like they’re offering the student something in exchange. they’re also requiring that an intern, generally a student who is not working a paying job, own a (presumably) licensed piece of software that costs nearly $1000 and is the latest version of that software. because they, the professional employers, (presumably) don’t own it.

also, graphic designers do not proofread or edit. graphic designers design and layout. a few of us (ok, probably more than a few) are grammar geeks and will proofread for sh*ts and giggles, but it’s not a job requirement.

and assembling tables and hanging bunting may be a big part of an event planning job, but it doesn’t necessarily constitute “great experience.” it constitutes “free labor” for the planning company. unless they’re going to be holding a lecture on the finer points of planning during set-up, it’s doubtful a student would get any real knowledge about event planning at this place.

so to summarize, just because you don’t pay your staff doesn’t mean they are “interns.”

legally speaking, see what qualifies here.