Summer Internship Program: FAQs
What is the goal of the Internship Program?
The internship program's goal is for students to learn more about careers in Extension, to expand extension experience among candidates for future employment, and to increase support of unit offices during the summer months. Interns benefit from a unique service learning opportunity and mentoring by professional agents while providing support to Extension agents and the communities they serve.
What is Virginia Cooperative Extension?
Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) is a dynamic organization that advocates positive change for more productive lives and vibrant communities. VCE’s mission is to enable people to improve their lives through an educational process that uses scientific knowledge focused on issues and needs. If that mission appeals to you, we encourage you to learn more about us by applying to be an intern.
What are the qualifications for the internship position?
Interns should be at least college juniors or seniors who are currently enrolled and maintaining at least a 2.5 GPA. Read about more qualifications here.
Do I have to be an agriculture major?
We are not limiting internship appointments to students in the Virginia Tech’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences or the Virginia State University School of Agriculture. However, you should be majoring in a subject related to the programs offered in our unit offices. Extension professionals work in a variety of areas, including Family and Consumer Sciences, Agriculture, Horticulture, Natural Resources, 4-H and Youth Development, and Community Viability.
Will I receive academic credit for this internship?
Students are encouraged to seek academic credit for this internship experience and should check with their department about the possibility of arranging academic credit for their internship.
What are my responsibilities as an intern?
Student interns are expected to contribute to the Extension educational programs in the resident unit.
The intern will receive valuable work experience of an educational programming nature and not simply engage in mundane tasks. Review the intern job description for a general understanding of the responsibilities. Specific responsibilities will vary from unit to unit.
How are Intern selections made?
Intern applications are reviewed by VCE state administration to check that applicants meet the basic qualifications. Applications that are accepted are sent on to unit offices. The unit office will then communicate with applicants about interviews and make final decisions about intern selection.
How many hours is the internship?
The internship program is 40 hours per week for a maximum of 10 weeks. However, this position requires flexible work hours, including attendance at night and weekend meetings and events.
When does the Internship begin?
This internship is a summer program. Once a student has been selected by a county, the student will work with the local Extension agent to determine the exact start date and program calendar for the internship. The dates are somewhat flexible according to the needs of the student and the unit schedule.
How much will each intern be paid?
Interns will be paid $10 per hour for up to 10 weeks.
Is an Intern’s work-related travel expenses covered?
Any work-related travel expenses, other than travel to and from work, will be paid by Extension.
Will an intern’s living expenses be covered during the internship?
No, there are no funds available to help with living expenses in the counties. However, some counties may be able to make local arrangements.