Internship Resources
Need additional assistance?
Since there are so many variables involved, you are encouraged to make an appointment with a counselor at UCS so that we may discuss your specific goals, plans-tailored to you as an individual. You may schedule an appointment with a UCS counselor by calling 203.432.0800.
Applying
The application procedure will vary depending on the organization and/or internship program. Generally speaking, you will need to provide a resume and cover letter. Depending on the type of position, you may also be asked for a writing sample, or other related materials to demonstrate skill in a specific area. UCS can assist you in developing your application materials; either come in during open hours or make an appointment with a Counselor.
The application procedure may vary depending on the organization as well from country to country. For example, in Europe, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) as we know it in the U.S. may be used to refer to a resume. What is the difference, you ask? A resume is a one to two page synopsis of experience, skills, and education while a CV is typically longer and includes publication information, research and teaching experience as well as honors, awards. Within the U.S., a CV is most often used by academics. Know the difference and what is most typically used in the country you are seeking an opportunity. Also, it is not uncommon in some countries for applicants to include a picture and vital statistics such as date of birth, marital status, and nationality. Employers may also expect materials to be submitted in the native language. If communication is done via email, be sure all materials are formatted to print easily. 8 ½" by 11" may not be the standard size paper used in many countries. Research all the requirements before you start your application process.
Housing Resources in the US
When beginning your housing search, start by asking your employer for leads, they may have resources to assist you or may know where past interns have found housing. Check with your classmates and friends to see where they will be interning - you may be able to share an apartment or sublet to cut down on costs. Talking with your network about housing options may yield some viable possibilities.
Many colleges and universities open up their residence halls for short-term, affordable rentals to college students interning in the area during the summer; check individual college websites or contact institutions directly to inquire about housing. College newspapers may also list information on student-friendly apartments, sublets, or rooms for rent in the surrounding areas. Also, Yale Clubs in the area you will be interning may have recommendations or be able to provide assistance in locating housing.
As you begin your housing search, it is important to prepare a budget to determine how much you can realistically afford to spend on housing. Investigate all options that fit within your budget, keeping track of the pros and cons of each. If you choose to share living arrangements with a friend, talk about financial limitations to assure you are in agreement. Before signing any rental or sublet agreements, be sure to thoroughly read all contracts and make sure you, and any potential roommates, are clear about all terms of the agreement.
Below is a sample listing of web resources to assist you in finding internship housing.
Housing:
Craigslist.org - listings of rooms, apartments and sublets available in cities across the country and around the world.
Educational Housing Service - student housing in New York City.
MetroRoommates.com - national resource for summer sublet, apartment rentals, sublets and roommates.
Sublet.com - apartment rental service that advertises apartments, sublets, subleases, roommates & houses for rent.
Sublet in the City - Handles housing requests from short-term to long-term to furnished versus unfurnished apartments.
Washington Intern Student Housing - housing is found at a number of Capitol Hill locations. Two basic living arrangements exist: Apartments accommodate two to six interns and have single, double, or triple bedrooms OR Town homes or row houses offer shared or private rooms and shared common spaces.
Housing Resources Abroad
If you plan to intern through an organized program, assistance finding housing is typically provided. Some resources for temporary, short-term housing can be found at local University dormitory; through short-term rental companies; local newspaper, housing exchange boards, Craig's List, hostels. Before committing to a rental, signing any contractual agreements, be sure to conduct a thorough due diligence as to the legitimacy of the organization and the listing itself.
Below is a sample listing of links to on-line housing resources. UCS does not endorse these services. This is by no means, a complete, comprehensive list but will help you get the process started:
Housing:
Craigslist.org
Go Abroad.com Accommodations
International Chamber of Commerce Listings
Listing of Local Newspapers
Travel Stay
Time Out
Virtual Tourist
Funding your Way in the US
The amount of compensation employers offer interns will vary, with some internships providing minimal or no compensation. Accepting unpaid or low paid internships may make supporting yourself for the summer a challenge. Financial support can be found by tapping into other sources to lessen the financial strain of an unpaid internship. Review the information below to learn about resources and options for funding your internship.
- Fellowships and Grants
There are fellowships and grants you can apply for to help financially support your internship experience. Some academic departments and Residential Colleges offer fellowships that support internships; check with your DUS, Dean and Master to inquire if there are awards and funds available for internships or research projects. In addition, the resources below can assist you in locating grant and fellowship information.
Office of Fellowship Programs (OFP) - OFP serves as a clearinghouse of information on fellowships that support low-paying or unpaid internships.
Student Grants and Fellowship Database - Database serves as a comprehensive, searchable resource for grants and fellowships available to support your initiatives.
- Part-Time Employment
In order to meet expenses, many students with unpaid internships acquire a part-time position for the sole purpose of earning a paycheck. Keep in mind that an internship does not have to be a full-time commitment; many employers are very open to an intern working less than forty hours per week. Your resume can boast the internship experience if you work on-site ten hours or fifty hours per week. Consider interning for twenty hours and working a paid job the other twenty hours. You will gain valuable experience and a regular income: the best of both worlds.
- Negotiate Other Perks
In many instances, an employer offering an unpaid internship is willing to negotiate other forms of compensation or "perks." These can include reimbursement for commuting costs, subway passes, registration fees for and travel to a national conference in your field, a one time stipend, or meal allowances.
Funding your Way Abroad
While an international internship experience itself may be priceless, interning abroad does have a price tag and, most often, is not a money-making venture. Depending on the country, you may be required to show a cash reserve in order to obtain a visa. There are opportunities that may offer some type of compensation either by means of a stipend or assistance with luncheon per diem, local transportation reimbursement. Most opportunities however, are unpaid. Understanding the provisions may determine your options.
How can I fund my internship, you ask? Within Yale, helpful resources can be found at:
Traveling in the US: Health & Safety Information
Generally, there are no broad health or safety concerns for US-based internships, but interns should make sure that they have the appropriate contact information for their health insurance company when traveling, just in case of emergency.
Traveling Abroad: Visa, Health & Safety Information
Prior to leaving the US you should register your travel. All international travelers must hold a valid passport; if your passport will expire during the time you plan to be abroad, you must renew it prior to traveling. In many countries, a visa may also be required to conduct short term work or practical training even if the opportunity will be unpaid. A visa can be obtained from the embassy or consulate office of the country you plan to travel to.
Visit http://www.embassy.org/ for a full listing of embassies. If you fail to comply with the entry requirements, you may be turned away at the border. Obtaining a visa can also take time (up to three months for some countries) so it is crucial to plan ahead.
If you do not have a passport, information about obtaining one can be found at the U.S. State Department website, travel section.
In addition to obtaining proper travel documents, individuals should not take safety, health issues for granted. Prior to departure, ensure that desired coverage is in place. Health insurance coverage varies greatly and it is safe to say that no assumption should be made about what will and will not be covered. There are numerous carriers that provide extended health coverage and you are strongly advised to conduct your own research. Two well known carriers that provide extended health coverage include International SOS and Wallach and Company. Quotes and comparisons on insurance can be found at InsureMyTrip.com.
Visit the Travel Health and Safety checklist for more information.
Credit Information in the US
Yale College does not award credit for internships. This policy is not unique to Yale; it is shared by all Ivy League institutions and some liberal-arts colleges. However, we encourage you to apply for an internship that requires credit and will assist you in establishing your candidacy. Upon your request, Undergraduate Career Services will provide you with a letter explaining Yale College policy and giving your internship official Yale College sanction.
To request a letter written on your behalf, please e-mail UCS Internship Program. Please include the name and address of your prospective employer, along with the name of the individual to whom the letter should be addressed. Please indicate whether you would like us to mail or fax this letter directly to the organization, or if you would like to pick up the letter at Undergraduate Career Services. There is a 48-hour turn-around period for the completion of a letter request.
Credit Letter FAQ
Q: Why do some organizations require students receive credit for internships?
A: Organizations that choose not to pay their interns may ask that students receive credit as a form of compensation for their work. The legal counsels of some organizations prefer that students are compensated for their experience, as the compensated intern is protected by company insurance policies. An uncompensated (unpaid) intern may be viewed as a liability by some organizations, leaving them open to lawsuits involving such issues as personal injury and sexual harassment while on the job.
Q: What is the likelihood that my candidacy will be denied based on Yale's "no credit" policy?
A: Historically, the majority of organizations offering unpaid internships accept the Yale College policy without reservation. However, a small number have declined to hire students who could not receive credit for their internship. While Undergraduate Career Services cannot guarantee that your potential sponsor will accept Yale's policy, we will work with you to identify ways to make your internship successful.
Credit Information Abroad
Yale College does not award course credit for international internship opportunities.
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