Are you a CUNY student eager to jumpstart your career with hands-on experience? The Career Launch Program is designed to bridge the gap between your academic studies and the professional world, offering invaluable internship opportunities across diverse industries. This program provides a structured pathway for you to gain practical skills, explore potential career paths, and build a professional network, all while still pursuing your degree.
Understanding the Career Launch Program
The Career Launch Program is a comprehensive initiative specifically for City University of New York (CUNY) students seeking to gain real-world work experience. It recognizes the importance of practical application alongside academic learning and aims to empower students from various academic backgrounds to embark on successful careers. Whether you are exploring different fields or are set on a specific career trajectory, the Career Launch Program offers a supportive environment to test the waters and gain crucial industry insights.
The core benefit of the program lies in its provision of paid internships. These are not just any internships; they are carefully selected to align with various industry sectors, ensuring relevance to your academic pursuits and career aspirations. Through these internships, you will develop professional skills, build confidence, and enhance your resume, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market after graduation. The program is structured to support you throughout the internship journey, from application to completion, ensuring a rewarding and enriching experience.
Navigating the Application Process for the Career Launch Program
Getting started with the Career Launch Program involves a straightforward yet thorough application process. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
1. Application Submission: The first step is to submit your application online. This includes a crucial component: a short statement of interest. This statement is your opportunity to express why you are interested in the program and the specific Industry Hub you are applying to.
2. Interview for Qualifying Students: After the initial application review, qualifying students will be invited for an interview with CUNY representatives. This interview is a chance for the program organizers to learn more about you, your interests, and your career goals.
3. Selection and Hiring Documents: Following the interviews, successful candidates will be notified of their selection into the program. At this stage, you will need to complete standard hiring documents, including submitting your I-9 form for employment eligibility verification.
4. Employer Matching and Internship Site Selection: Once your hiring documents are in order, the exciting part begins! You will have the opportunity to meet with potential employers from various organizations and choose an internship site that best aligns with your interests and career goals.
Key Application Tips and FAQs:
- Resume Requirement: A professional resume is mandatory for your application. If you don’t have one, make sure to visit your career services office for assistance in creating a compelling resume that highlights your skills and experiences.
- Statement of Interest Prompt: Be prepared to articulate your motivations. The short-answer prompt typically asks you to describe how your personal interests have influenced your desire to apply for your chosen Industry Hub. Aim for a response between 200-400 words.
- Application Status Updates: The program reviews applications on a rolling basis. Be patient after applying, as it takes time to process the large volume of applications. Regularly check both your email inbox and spam folder for updates regarding your application status.
- Industry Hub Selection: Choose your Industry Hub carefully as you cannot switch to another hub after submitting your application. Research each hub to ensure it aligns with your career interests.
- Interview Preparation: If you are new to internship interviews, utilize the resources at your career services office. They can provide valuable interview preparation help and guidance.
- Applying to Multiple Hubs: You must select only ONE Industry Hub to apply to. Choose the one that genuinely interests you the most.
- Choosing the Right Industry Hub: The decision of which Industry Hub to apply to is ultimately yours. Explore the details of each hub (outlined below) to make an informed choice based on your interests and career aspirations.
Exploring the Diverse Industry Hubs
The Career Launch Program is structured around various Industry Hubs, each focusing on a specific sector. This specialization allows you to delve deep into an area of interest and gain targeted experience. Here’s a glimpse into each hub:
Community & Social Impact Hub
For students passionate about making a difference, the Community and Social Impact Hub offers internships within mission-driven organizations and government offices. You will contribute to projects aimed at improving the lives of New York City residents and communities. Internships here involve hands-on projects where you can develop skills in advocacy, event planning, project management, research, and more. This hub is ideal for majors like Criminal Justice, Sociology, Political Science, and anyone keen on social change.
Example Organizations: Association to Benefit Children, Make the Road New York.
Example Internship Positions: Community Organizer, Outreach Intern, Fundraising and Events Coordinator.
Key Skills Developed: Communication, Leadership, Critical Thinking, Teamwork.
STEM/Green Hub
If you are studying in a STEM field, the STEM/Green Industry Hub is your gateway to internships in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. This hub caters to the rapidly growing STEM sector, offering opportunities in both industry and research settings. Prior work experience is not expected, making it perfect for your first STEM internship. Students interested in Computer Science, Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Sciences will find relevant opportunities here.
Example Organizations: Unadat, NYC DOT.
Example Internship Positions: Software Engineer, Research Intern, Mechanical Engineer.
Healthcare Hub
The Healthcare Industry Hub is crucial for students aiming for careers in the healthcare sector, including Pre-Med, Nursing, and related fields. This hub focuses on providing real-life work experience in healthcare facilities, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical application. Interns gain firsthand experience in patient-facing or administrative roles, addressing the evolving needs of the healthcare industry.
Example Organizations: Brookdale Hospital Medical Center, NYU Langone Health.
Example Internship Positions: Patient Navigator, Healthcare Administrative Intern, Research Assistant.
Key Skills Developed: Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Time Management, Flexibility.
Marketing & Communications Hub
For those with a flair for creativity and communication, the Marketing & Communications Hub offers internships in diverse roles. You could be involved in content creation, social media management, event planning, public relations, and more. This hub is perfect for students in Marketing, Communications, and related fields, or anyone with a strong desire to gain experience in this dynamic sector. A proactive and enthusiastic attitude is highly valued in this hub.
Example Organizations: Organizations in Education, Sports & Entertainment, and Non-profit sectors.
Example Internship Positions: Marketing & Communication Strategist, Social Media Intern, Events Management Intern.
Key Skills Developed: Initiative, Writing Skills, Project Management, Customer Relations.
Education Hub
The Education Hub partners with established CUNY programs like Reading Corps and CCB4A to offer internships focused on making a difference in education. A significant component is the CUNY Reading Corps, which places students as paid tutors in NYC public schools. If you are interested in literacy and education, this hub provides hands-on experience and training in evidence-based reading programs.
Partnerships: CUNY Reading Corps, CCB4A (College & Career Bridge for All).
Focus Areas: Literacy tutoring, educational support in public schools.
Neighborhood Mobilization Hub
In partnership with the NYC Mayor’s Office Public Engagement Unit, the Neighborhood Mobilization Hub focuses on community outreach and public service. Interns in this hub engage directly with New Yorkers to connect them with essential city services, particularly in areas like housing and healthcare. This hub involves in-person engagement, community events, and outreach methods to assist individuals in need.
Partner: NYC Mayor’s Office Public Engagement Unit.
Focus Areas: Community outreach, connecting residents with city services, public engagement.
Launch Your Career Today
The Career Launch Program is more than just an internship program; it’s a launchpad for your future career. By providing structured experiences, skill development, and industry connections, it empowers CUNY students to confidently step into the professional world. Explore the Industry Hubs that align with your passions and take the first step towards a successful career by applying to the Career Launch Program today.
