Program Overview

The CLASS Dean's Mayoral Summer Internship Program

Description

The CLASS Dean's Mayoral Summer Internship Program is designed to provide students with a valuable experience in learning and serving in a variety of capacities in the local city government. Students will be given a stipend of $5,000 for their participation in this summer internship. They will be given the opportunity to explore career possibilities in local government, gain experience in serving community initiatives, develop marketable skills, and develop professional networks.

Internship Details

Interns will have opportunities to work in one of five key areas:

• Homeless Initiatives
• Education Initiatives
• Cultural Affairs Initiatives
• Economic Development Initiatives
• Internationalism Initiatives

Some additional responsibilities interns will be expected to participate in include:

• Research and prepare support materials for diplomatic and international business development initiatives
• Staff meetings between the Mayor or other local officials and visiting delegations and dignitaries
• Contribute to office administration, protocol services, social media, community outreach and international trade
• Network and interact with a variety of international community leaders
• Sit in on council session
• Present on their internship experience at an internship summit at the end of the internship

Interns are expected to work a minimum of 20 hours per week for a total of 8 weeks.

Qualifications

• Each applicant must submit a resume and cover letter detailing their qualifications
• Applicants must be currently enrolled in a CLASS major
• Applicants must complete an application
• Commitment to a minimum of 20 hours a week per semester
• Must be able to provide proof of eligibility to work in the US
• Attend orientation on professionalism prior to internship placement

Ideal Candidates

Ideal candidates possess:

• Outstanding academic achievement
• Strong writing ability
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Demonstrated dedication to public service through volunteerism in school and/or community activities

Application Details

Application details will be available in spring semester 2026. Applicants should attach an up-to-date resume that highlights their academic achievements, professional experience, and volunteer or community work.

Selection Process

The internship selection process has two parts:

• First, a CLASS selection committee will evaluate an initial pool of candidates who meet the minimum qualifications.
• Second, a smaller pool of candidates will be referred to the appropriate city agency according to the candidate's area of interest as listed on the application. Candidates should be prepared to dress professionally, bring a resume with references and a writing sample, and potentially participate in two interviews: one with the CLASS internship committee and one with the Mayor's office.