Chancellor’s Mayoral Internship Program

Summary:

The Chancellor’s Mayoral Internship Program is a five-year partnership between Rutgers University–Camden and the City of Camden Office of the Mayor. The summer internship program is designed to afford at least five selected students the opportunity to work in municipal government in priority areas identified by the sitting mayor. Students selected for the internship program will gain service-learning experience, participate in community outreach, and build professional networks for potential careers in public service. The internships will allow Rutgers University–Camden students to spend eight weeks working alongside local city government officials each summer.

Deadline:

Applications are due at or before 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2025.

Eligibility Criteria:

Enrollment at Rutgers University–Camden:

Applicants must be currently enrolled as full-time undergraduate, graduate or professional students at Rutgers University–Camden during the academic year preceding the summer internship.

Academic Standing:

Applicants should maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 to be considered eligible for the Chancellor's Mayoral Internship Program.

Commitment to Full Internship Period:

Applicants must commit to the full eight-week internship period during the summer without conflicting obligations to other academic or employment commitments.

Selection Criteria:

Demonstrated Interest in Public Service:

Articulate a sincere interest in public service, as evidenced by coursework, extracurricular activities, or volunteer experiences aligning with the goals of the internship program.

Communication Skills:

Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for effective engagement in community outreach and collaboration with local government officials.

Community Involvement:

Prior involvement in community service or outreach activities that demonstrate a commitment to civic engagement and a desire to contribute to the betterment of the community is encouraged.

Professionalism and Networking:

Previous experiences or efforts to build professional networks, as the internship aims to provide opportunities for networking and potential career development in public service is desired.

Application Process:

Step 1: Review Eligibility Criteria

Before initiating the application process, carefully review the eligibility criteria to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Prepare the following materials for submission:

• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlighting academic achievements, relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and any community service or volunteer experience.
• Cover Letter: Addressing your interest in public service, specific reasons for applying to the Chancellor's Mayoral Internship Program, and how your academic and extracurricular background aligns with the program's goals.
• Academic Transcripts: Provide an official or unofficial copy of your academic transcripts from Rutgers University–Camden.
• Letters of Recommendation: Submit at least two letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or community leaders who can speak to your qualifications and potential for success in the internship program.

Step 3: Complete Online Application Form

Visit the official Chancellor's Mayoral Internship Program application portal and complete the online application form. Ensure that all required fields are accurately filled out.

Step 4: Submit Application Package

Compile all application materials, including your resume/CV, cover letter, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation into a single package. Submit the application package through the online portal by the specified deadline.

Step 5: Application Review Process

Applications will undergo a thorough review process by the selection committee. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews to further assess their suitability for the internship.

Step 6: Interview Process

Shortlisted candidates will participate in an interview process, providing an opportunity for the selection committee to learn more about the applicants' qualifications, interests, and potential contributions to the program.

Step 7: Notification of Selection

Successful applicants will be notified of their selection for the Chancellor's Mayoral Internship Program. Details regarding the internship placement, orientation, and further instructions will be provided at this stage.

Step 8: Acceptance and Commitment

Selected interns must confirm their acceptance of the internship offer and commit to the full eight-week internship period during the summer.

Interns will commence their eight-week internship, working alongside local city government officials, gaining valuable service-learning experience, and contributing to the identified priority areas.

Step 9: Lunch Presentation

Awardees will attend a closing luncheon following completion of the internship. Chancellor’s leadership cabinet, student supervisors, the Interview committee and additional members of the mayor’s office may be in attendance. Students will be expected to prepare and present their top accomplishments and lessons learned during their internship (up to 10 minutes).