College and University students majoring in science, engineering, technology and math (STEM) related fields have a free resource for finding paid internships, as do companies who wish to hire them.
Now in its second year, the expanded Commonwealth STEM Industry Internship Program (CSIIP) offers a no-cost, centralized, online application system that allows Virginia undergraduate college students majoring in STEM the ability to search and apply for paid, STEM-related internships with Virginia companies. Additionally, it provides Virginia companies with year-round free access to a large state-wide pool of qualified students for their internship opportunities. Students provide one comprehensive application that can be reviewed by companies throughout the state.
“Internships offer paid real-world work experiences to students in their majors,” said VSGC Director Mary Sandy. “These experiences are wonderful ways for students to gain experience and to put their academic skills to use, and for companies to consider these individuals for future employment opportunities. CSIIP is designed to give students exposure to many companies with one application and to provide employers with a diverse pool of high qualified, pre-screened STEM applicants. CSIIP helps both Virginia companies and students make these important workforce connections.”
The 2014 program has been broadened to include internships in spring, summer and fall. In addition to full-time students, part-time students meeting certain criteria may now also use the program. Students must be STEM majors, at least a rising college sophomore at the time of internship, and attending a Virginia college or community or be a Virginia resident if attending an out-of-state school. The minimum grade point average for consideration is 2.7 on a four-point scale.
Students receive statewide consideration for available internships, but can also express interest in specific internships or in specific regions of the state. Participating companies can search the applicant pool via an enhanced sophisticated search and sort tool to look at applicants by major, skills, colleges, geographic proximity and key-word searches. Companies will make selections, interview, and hire students directly. Hourly rates will be determined by the company, but a minimum rate has been established.
The Virginia Space Grant Consortium (VSGC) offers the Commonwealth STEM Industry Internship program with funding from the Commonwealth of Virginia. Partners include: Virginia’s regional technology councils, the Virginia Manufacturers Association’s Dream !t, Do !t® Virginia initiative, the Virginia Society of Human Resource Managers and Systemic Solutions of Northern Virginia.
Students should apply now, as a number of companies begin making summer and spring internship selections as early as December. Companies are encouraged to register as soon as possible and to list internship opportunities in the system for maximum exposure. Visit the site at http://www.csiip.spacegrant.org/ to apply, register your company or learn more.
