HCLIP will prepare youth aged 18 and over for potential career paths in public service. Participant benefits will include:
HCLIP interns will serve as leaders in their community and contribute to placement offices and the community at large in the following ways:
HCLIP Summer Internship FAQs
1) What are the HCLIP criteria for interns?
For admission into HCLIP, applicants must meet the minimum academic standards. This includes being currently enrolled in a community college, undergraduate or graduate school, demonstrating a solid academic record, and showcasing relevant skills and interests in the program's focus areas. Post-grads are considered on a case-by-case basis.
Please contact HCLIP if you have special circumstances.
2) Where will I be placed?
Interns will be placed in Harris County government and related non-profits. The placements are based on a combination of your skills, interests, and the needs of our departments. Placements include divisions in the Office of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, such as Policy, Youth Education, Parks, Finance and Environmental Design, Harris County Public Health, the Office of County Engineering, Harris County Flood Control, Forensics, other county departments, Hester House, and Street Olympics. Participants are matched in host offices that align with their career goals.
3) What is the stipend?
Students are awarded $5,500 for 10 weeks. The stipend should allow the intern to focus fully on the work without taking on too many external obligations.
4) How long is the internship?
The exact dates may vary each year, and participants are expected to commit to the full duration of the program. The internship will last 10 weeks. Interns are allotted 3 flex/vacation days. Please see the current application for program dates.
5) Do you help find housing?
Housing is not provided as part of the program, and HCLIP is not able to assist interns directly in finding accommodations.
6) What are the typical work hours?
Interns work full-time, averaging 40 hours during the standard workweek. Specific details regarding work hours will be communicated by the host supervisor of your department upon placement.
7) Is there a virtual option?
No, the program recognizes the importance of flexibility. However, virtual internship options are not available. There may be some hybrid days, but the intern is expected to be available for in-person work daily.
8) Will I receive mentorship during the internship?
Yes, participants will be assigned a mentor from the host organization who will provide guidance, support, and feedback throughout the internship. Additionally, there may be opportunities for networking and mentorship events organized by the program.
9) Are there opportunities for professional development?
Absolutely. The program is designed to provide interns with valuable professional development opportunities. This may include workshops, public policy lunch and learns, and training sessions focused on enhancing both technical and soft skills to help participants succeed in their future careers.
10) Can I apply for the program if I am an international student?
Yes, the program is open to both domestic and international students. However, international applicants should ensure they have the necessary documentation to work in the host country and should be aware of any additional requirements or considerations. HCLIP does not sponsor Visas for the summer.
11) How are internship placements determined?
Internship placements are determined through a careful matching process that considers the skills, interests, and career goals of each participant. The program works closely with departments to ensure a mutually beneficial match for both the intern and the department.
12) What support is provided for professional networking?
The program facilitates networking opportunities through events, public service volunteering, virtual meetings, and social gatherings. Additionally, interns may have the chance to connect with professionals in their field through organized networking events or opportunities.
13) Are there opportunities for post-internship employment?
While there is no guarantee of post-internship employment, adding local government professional experiences to your resume will help you pursue your eventual career goals. You may use the experiences gained during the internship to secure employment in related fields.