The Internship

The internship assigned to each student is an integral part of the Student Leader Experience.
Students will work with a nonprofit employeer for 7 weeks, getting paid by Bank of America. In my particular region, the pay is $10 per hour, which is above the minimum wage by quite a bit. However, in other markets, where, locally, the minimum wage is $14.50, Bank of America paid Student Leaders $14.50 an hour.
Students work with their nonprofit for 35 hours a week. Students are also paid during the week that they go to Washington DC, for a 35 hour week.
Internships vary by markets.
Some Student Leaders I spoke with, all worked at the same nonprofit with other Leaders from their market.
However, in my market, each student has an individual nonprofit employeer.
My particular internship was perfect for me! I work at Ranken Jordan, a pediatric specialty hospital for medically challenged kids. It's a very positive enviorment that gives me a first hand look into the inter-workings of a business.
Other students in my market report that they're also very happy with their internships. Each student is placed at a nonprofit that fits their interests.
When speaking with other Student Leaders from around the country, I noticed that three of the most common nonprofits that students tended to intern with were YMCA, YWCA and The Boys and Girls Club.
However, there were several other nonprofits in the mix, both local and national organizations, like United Way, The International Institute and so forth.
One of the best parts about being selected as a Student Leader is the work experience you'll gain during your internship. It's absolutely essential to students who are considering various career paths or planning to apply for jobs in the future.
As my internship is coming to a close, I know that I will miss all the wonderful and helpful people I have encountered along the way. I'm extremely grateful to Bank of America for giving me this amazing experience and to my nonprofit host, Ranken Jordan, for making sure I had a great learning experience ans an intern. I know I'll definitely be returning to Ranken Jordan as a volunteer! :)