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PCIP FAQ
What are my chances of being accepted into PCIP?
The majority of students that apply to PCIP are accepted into the program. If you attend the required workshops, have your application materials reviewed by a CDO staff member, and apply by the deadline, you have a very good chance of being accepted. We look for students that have thoughtfully applied to internships that are in line with a career path they are serious about exploring. Students must also be able to communicate how the internship relates to their career goals. We also look for students that have made adjustments to their schedule to allow time for an internship.
Why have there been changes to PCIP recently?
We have observed that Pomona students often struggle with knowing how to choose a career path and seeing how they can apply their major to industries that do not seem directly related to their area of study. According to an annual survey, the majority of Pomona seniors cannot name 5 job titles suited to someone with their interests and abilities or 5 employers that would want to hire them. We want to help students be as prepared as possible to leave Pomona.
Which career industries are most commonly represented?
The PCIP internships on Route 47 stem mostly from nonprofit, media and entertainment, the arts, and environmental/energy industries.
Can I do an internship if I’m an international student?
Yes, international students are eligible for participating in PCIP. Please contact the Internship Coordinator for more details.
Is there a limit to how many internships I can apply for on Route 47?
There is no limit on the number of internships students can apply for. However, we advise students to apply to 4-8 internships to have a wide selection (better to apply to more internships and have multiple interviews to increase the chance of an internship match). Keep in mind that students need to factor in time it will take to apply to multiple internships as each cover letter will be customized. Also, students need to factor in time during November (for spring) or April (for fall) for interviews.
What makes a high quality internship?
- A supervisor and staff committed to teaching you about the industry and finding ways to engage you in various ways (i.e. take you to industry events to make additional contacts)
- Project-based work that is representative of entry-level work.
- Exposure to various aspects of the organization (i.e. attending staff meetings, going on site visits)
Where can I find information on past interns’ experiences?
Binders containing feedback from past interns are available in the The CDO Resource Library, SCC 148.
Can I do more than one PCIP internship at a time?
Only one internship is allowed each semester, regardless of whether the second would be paid or unpaid.
Can I apply for PCIP internship if I have previously participated?
It is possible to be accepted for PCIP as a past participant. Please see the “PCIP Selection Criteria” for details. It also depends on the availability of funds and the number of applicants during any given semester.
Can I do a virtual internship?
It is possible to do a virtual PCIP internship. However, it is advised that you agree upon the forms of communication with your supervisor about work assignments and feedback.
It is highly recommended that internships are in-person because it allows for more opportunities to observe various aspects of the organization, network with staff, and provides an overall richer experience unmatched by a virtual internship.
Can I get help with my PCIP application materials?
Yes, come by the CDO during our Drop-In Advising hours (M-F, 3-4:30pm and Tu-Th 10:30-11:30am) for assistance on your cover letter and resume. Please bring hard copies of your materials or you can print out copies in our career library.