U Career Success is launching an innovative summer program aimed at empowering students and supporting local small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Thanks to an initiative from President Taylor Randall’s office, the new Community Champions Internship Program provides first- and second-year students an opportunity to gain valuable paid work experience while contributing to organizations with a positive social impact.

Community Champions looks for local small businesses and nonprofits dedicated to positive change—with a focus on those lacking the financial resources to hire interns. The program covers intern pay, allowing the organizations to benefit from fresh perspectives and the extra support of skilled interns at no cost to them. The interns gain practical work experience geared toward fueling their career curiosity and workplace know-how.

Applicants are carefully matched with organizations based on their skills and interests, allowing students to make a real impact while exploring a field that resonates with both their personal and career goals. By focusing on first- and second-year students, Community Champions fills a critical gap; many traditional internships are reserved for upper-class students, making it difficult for younger students to gain essential early professional experience. By engaging in opportunities at the start of their college journey, students are positioned for even greater success in their academic and career paths.

Community Champions aims to place 100 students in internships by pairing them in groups of two or more at up to 50 local nonprofits. Each internship will span 10 weeks during the summer of 2025, with interns working up to 19 hours per week and earning $13 per hour.

The application process for students interested in interning will open on Dec. 2, 2024, and close on Jan. 31, 2025. Students can sign up to be notified when applications open here. For organizations, the deadline to express interest in hosting interns is Dec. 31, 2024. Interested employers are encouraged to submit their interest here.

The Community Champions Internship Program represents a collaborative effort to build up local communities, help mission-driven organizations thrive, and empower University of Utah students through early and meaningful work experiences. For more information or to apply, visit careers.utah.edu/community-champions.