Community Impact Summer Internship- Student Information

Program Overview 

The Community Impact Summer Internship is an 8-week experiential learning opportunity designed to connect UC Merced scholars with community-based organizations. Through this program, students gain hands-on experience, develop professional skills, and contribute to work that supports communities facing economic, social, and systemic challenges. 
 
Scholars will complete a minimum of 80 hours between June and August while working with an approved host site. Throughout the program, students will engage in structured reflection, receive guidance from program staff, and participate in a final showcase to present their work and learning. 
 
Students who successfully complete all program requirements will receive up to a $1,500 stipend. 

Program Goals 

Program Requirements 

  • Secure or be matched with an approved host site 
  • Complete a minimum of 80 hours over 8 weeks 
  • Participate in bi-weekly check-ins with program staff or student leads 
  • Engage in work that supports the mission of the host organization 
  • Attend a program orientation 
  • Present at the end-of-summer showcase (August 14) 

Benefits for Scholars 

  • Gain hands-on, real-world experience in a professional setting 
  • Develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving 
  • Explore and clarify career interests and goals 
  • Build professional relationships with supervisors and community partners 
  • Strengthen their resume and future job/internship applications 
  • Receive structured support and guidance from program staff 
  • Earn up to $1,500 stipend upon successful completion 
  • Contribute to meaningful work that positively impacts their communities 

How to Select an Internship Site 

Scholars have the flexibility to identify and secure an internship site that aligns with their interests and community connections. Students may either find their own organization or select from a list of pre-identified partner organizations that will be shared by our team. 
 

To participate, students must: 

Identify a community-based organization that serves one or more of the following populations:  
  • Individuals from low-income backgrounds  
  • Individuals facing housing or financial instability  
  • Individuals impacted by systemic barriers  
  • Individuals from underserved communities 
Reach out to the organization directly to confirm their ability to host you as an intern 
 
Please note that organizations must also agree to host you. Some organizations may require an interview or additional steps before confirming your placement. 
 
Once a site is identified, the organization will be required to complete this site application form. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

  1. What kind of organizations can I work with? 
    • Students will work with community-based organizations that serve individuals from low-income backgrounds, those facing housing or financial instability, or communities impacted by systemic barriers. 
  2. Do I find my own host site? 
    • You may propose your own host site (subject to approval) or be matched with one of our partner organizations. 
  3. Is placement guaranteed at my preferred site? 
    • No. Preferences are considered but not guaranteed. 
  4. How many hours do I need to complete? 
    • A minimum of 80 hours over the 8-week program. 
  5. Will I get paid? 
    • Yes. Students who complete all requirements will receive up to $1,500 in a stipend through Financial Aid. 
  6. What support will I receive? 
    • You will receive guidance from staff, bi-weekly check-ins, and ongoing support. 
  7. What is the final showcase? 
    • Students will present their work, skills gained, and impact at the end of the program. 
  8. What happens if I don’t complete requirements? 
    • You may not be eligible to receive the stipend. 
  9. When does the program take place? 
    • The program runs approximately 8 weeks between June and August.