Am I eligible to apply if I am studying abroad? Yes, students studying abroad are encouraged to apply.  If you will be abroad during this time, please indicate this on your cover letter and if you are selected for an interview, we will arrange a phone or video interview with you.

What kinds of program activities are organized during the internship period? These can include a welcome dinner, an alumni mentor event, networking opportunities and fun social and cultural activities. CCE also provides pre-program professional skills training and post-program reflection sessions to help students understand, appreciate and articulate their experiences. 

Is housing provided?  How much does housing cost? Housing is recommended to students in the greater Los Angeles and San Francisco areas but is not provided directly by CCE. CCE can help students learn about cost effective housing options and covering student housing costs on a case-by-case basis (must fill out the financial support application in order to qualify).

Are the internships paid? Some internships will be paid, while others are unpaid.  This will be indicated on the specific job descriptions.

If I am selected for an unpaid internship, how can I cover the cost of my living and travel expenses? There are a number of funding resources available such as the Work Exemption Program, Departmental Grants and non-Columbia affiliated funding. Limited funding is available through CCE for qualifying students. To be considered for funding, applicants must submit a separate financial aid request form with their applications.

Can I apply for more than one internship? Yes, you may apply for up to two internships each in Los Angeles and San Francisco. 

If I want to apply for more than one internship, do I have to submit an application for each one? Yes, you must submit a separate application for each internship to which you want to apply.

What is the overall timeline for the application and selection process?

• November 17th, December 3rd and 4th, 2009 On-Campus Information Sessions at Columbia University about the program.
• January 10, 2010 Application deadline for all students to apply to the program through LionSHARE.
• January 20, 2010 - February 9, 2010 First round-interviews with CCE for internship position(s)
• February 10, 2010-February 19, 2010 Final-round interviews with employers (in person, phone, or video/teleconference)
• Week of February 22, 2010 Offers made to candidates
• March 2010 Financial support allocations determined and communicated to candidates
• March 12, 2010 Deadline to accept/decline offers
• April 30, 2010 Students will participate in pre-departure training activities at CCE