Program Overview

Introduction to the Pack Internship Grant Program

The Pack Internship Grant Program is designed to provide funding for individual student internships with various organizations, including non-profit organizations, start-up companies, public/government agencies, University departments, and NSHE affiliates in the Reno-Tahoe area. The program aims to support students in gaining professional experience and developing their skills.

Program Details

• The grant funds student interns' wages at $16/hour for 120 hours of work.
• The Pack Internship Grant Program pays fifty percent of these student wages, amounting to $960.
• Participating community organizations are expected to compensate student intern wages with these funds and self-fund the balance of the student wages along with fringe benefits.
• The self-funding obligation of $960 is equivalent to paying $8/hour for a motivated, qualified student intern.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligible Employers

Any non-profit organization, public/government agency, start-up or small business, University department, or NSHE affiliate in the greater Reno-Tahoe area is eligible to apply for a funded position. Employers may also participate with self-funded internships.

Application Process

Employers must complete an application to be considered for the Pack Internship Grant Program. The program team will review the position and conduct an interview to move forward with the employer and position. If an employer wishes to have multiple, unique internship positions, they will be able to apply for up to three positions through the application.

Internship Positions

The Pack Internship Grant Program offers various internship positions to students. Employers are encouraged to submit applications in multiple areas of need, as the program strives to develop a diverse set of internships each year. A thorough application must include:

• A proposed internship job description
• Duties
• Required and recommended qualifications Employers will be asked to identify which NACE Career Readiness Competencies the intern will be able to develop during the internship.

Program Duration and Intern Selection

Program Duration

Employer partnerships are established each summer, and student applications are accepted in the Fall semester. Internships take place the upcoming Spring semester, with students required to complete 120 hours during the subsequent Spring semester (mid-January April 30).

Intern Selection Process

Students apply for the internships during the Fall semester. The Pack Internship Grant Program is open to all full-time, undergraduate students, regardless of major or college, with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.75. The program team conducts the initial academic screening and then passes on remaining applicants to employers. Employers are responsible for interviewing applicants, selecting their intern, and notifying which applicants were not considered.

Expectations from Employers

The following is expected from employers who participate:

1. Meet with the Pack Internship Grant Program team to discuss the proposed internship(s) and program expectations
2. Sign an organization agreement and be an approved university community partner
3. Be an approved Supplier through the Nevada System of Higher Education
4. Provide professional support for and development of your intern
5. Complete various tasks by requested deadlines
6. Communicate in a timely manner with the Pack Internship Grant Program team

Conclusion

The Pack Internship Grant Program provides a valuable opportunity for students to gain professional experience and for employers to develop the skills of future professionals. By participating in the program, employers can contribute to the growth and development of students while also benefiting from the skills and enthusiasm that interns bring to their organizations.