Nonprofit Internships

Searching for a summer job or internship in the nonprofit sector is much the same as doing so in the private sector. Always check for internship listings on Cornell CareerNet as well as checking the websites suggested in the Internships Listing guide. Nonprofit internships, however, are often not actively advertised. It is important, then, to look for internships that exist from year to year, but may not be well-advertised, and/or to try to generate your own internship by contacting organizations you are interested in. But how do you start?

Particularly for standing (ongoing) internship programs, take advantage of the resources in the Barnes Hall Career Library and your college career office. The  Nonprofit Internship Guide is also very helpful in this regard.

Use your favorite internet search engine to find internships in your field of interest (enter arts internships, for instance, or if you can be more specific, arts internships, San Diego, CA). Be sure to follow the application instructions for each internship carefully.

An internet search also yields organizations in the location of your choice (for example, do a search for nonprofits, Nashville, TN). Research those whose work interests you. Send them a resume and a cover letter that describes your interest in the organization, your skills, experience, and what you hope to offer and to learn through an internship.

If you know well in advance where you will be for the summer, try to go there during a break and visit some organizations (learn about setting up Information Interviews in your Career Guide). See what these organizations really do, how they work, and meet some interesting people—then keep in touch with them. These contacts may well lead to a summer job. Anytime, anyplace, information interviews are an excellent way to educate yourself about possible career areas, about specific jobs and specific organizations.

Advertisements for full-time positions, whether on CCNet or elsewhere, are a good means of identifying organizations to contact. And Nonprofit Internship Guide, below, are included to help you identify both organizations and opportunities. Cornell alumni are also an excellent resource for identifying organizations and getting advice; search the Career Contact & Alumni Network on Cornell CareerNet, and speak with your college career office.