Check out some real examples of Semester in Detroit internships!
The Basics:
Each U-M student accepted into the program works closely with staff to choose a compelling and challenging internship opportunity with a Detroit-based organization (non-profit, museum, school, small business, elected official, and more). Students earn academic credit for working 16 hours per week (200 hours during fall/225 hours during spring) on a project designed by the organization. In addition to the internship credit, students also enroll in a required internship reflection seminar taught by Rose Gorman, SiD Program Manager and Lecturer I.
The Process:
U-M students first need to apply and be accepted into the Semester in Detroit program (see the Apply Now page for more information on application timeline). After being accepted into the program, students meet with staff to begin the internship placement process. Fall participants finalize internship placements in June. Spring placements are finalized in April. Typically, students get their first or second choice of internship.
Students choose internships from an array of Detroit community and cultural organizations. The interactive selection process is guided primarily by the student’s interests and the community’s agenda.
Previous program participants have:
- developed the capacity of a community collaborative on Detroit’s eastside to promote an ambitious Greenway development;
- assisted community organizing efforts in southwest Detroit focused on increasing parental involvement in local school community organizations;
- learned skills in radio journalism while contributing to the community-based mission of a Detroit public radio station;
- promoted collaboration between Detroit’s newest art museum and neighborhood-based community arts organizations.
