Internship Programs > First Year FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility requirements?

• You are a returning undergraduate college student, i.e. a current freshman, sophomore, junior or senior returning for a 5th year.

• You are able to work full-time (40 hours/wk) for 10 weeks during the summer.

• You have not participated in this internship program in the past.

• You are passionate about or interested in learning more about the non-profit sector.

When and how will I be paid?

• Forest Foundation grants $4,000.00 directly to the Host Agency in two payments, one in early June and the second in mid-July. These funds will then be allocated to you, the intern. Typical federal and state withholding taxes will apply.

• Your particular Host Agency's payroll procedure may vary. Some agencies have put the intern on their payroll system, while others have given the intern a stipend and provided them with a 1099.

• This DOES qualify as taxable income.

Do I need to interview with my host agency?

• This varies by agency, however be prepared to present your interests, strengths, learning objectives, and hopes for the internship placement. 

Is there flexibility in the 40 hours/week, 10 week internship schedule?

• Depending on both the needs of the agency and the intern, flexibility is possible. The internship must start by June 7th (at the latest) and end by August 12th.

• Forest Foundation must approve of any changes prior to the beginning of the internship.

What will my placement be like?

• Particular responsibilities and experiences will vary by agency, the details of which will be discussed upon placement at a particular agency. Please see the Possible Internship Placements page for examples of placements.

If I want to intern, but do not like the agency I was matched with, what is the procedure for finding another placement?

• A placement will be offered to you based on various criteria such as agency need, your personal skills and interests, as well as geography. If you choose not to accept the initial placement, your application will be wait listed and we may offer you another placement.

• If this process is unsuccessful, the position will be offered to another applicant.

What if I am not from the area but I want an internship and am willing to relocate for the summer?

• Many interns have come from other areas and have found reasonably priced housing. A good place to start is talking with your contact person/supervisor at your Host Agency to generate ideas and resources. Sometimes area colleges will open up their summer housing to outside students. Craigslist and other sublet postings are additional resources in your search for housing. Friends and family have also been an opportunity for some.   

• Please keep Forest Foundation informed of this process and let us know how we can support this search. 

• In the past years housing issues have not been a significant obstacle for the interns.