We are excited to kick off another amazing internship award season! Our office is thankful to support our students as they engage in amazing experiences worldwide. This past summer, we were able to award +270 students over $850,000! This went directly to the hands of the students as they prepared to take on opportunities from Architecture, to business and marking. We are able to provide assistance through our Washington D.C. Internship Fund, the Mark & Pearle Clements award and the Internship Funding Award all of which fun directly through our office. Visit our webpage to learn more about our Internship Funding Opportunities.
Early this semester, we gathered to celebrate the achievements of our students during our third annual Internship Award Reception. It was an evening filled with energy, inspiration, and the spirit of ambition that motivates students to pursue meaningful work experiences. Each award winner shared stories of growth, challenges, and breakthroughs that highlight not only their unique journey but also the transformative potential of internships. These awards recognize the commitment, resilience, and innovative thinking our students bring to a wide variety of fields.
The internship experiences celebrated ranged from social work to data science, environmental advocacy to healthcare, and countless other sectors. Each story reminded us of the many ways young professionals can impact their communities and industries. This year’s recipients didn’t just step into new roles—they left lasting impressions on their teams, projects, and workplaces. From building out new initiatives to pioneering research, they approached each challenge with curiosity and drive, truly embodying the values we champion here at Central Career Services.
A Look Ahead: Launching the New Award Season
With the Internship Award Reception still fresh in our minds, we’re excited to kick off the new year of awards, beginning today! This season, we’re eager to see how students navigate opportunities that allow them to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully in their fields. Our goal is to support students in maximizing these experiences, from finding the right internships to excelling and ultimately being recognized for their efforts.
Here’s what to expect for this new award cycle:
Expanded Opportunities: This year, we’re introducing new a method for students to submit their applications. We will utilize the Handshake: Experiences feature in order to make things more efficient for students looking to apply. With the launch of the Mark & Pearle Clements Award, we are confident that students will be able to apply without worrying about additional road blocks.
Professional Development Support: In addition to awards, our team will offer workshops and advising sessions aimed at helping students make the most of their internships. Through resume reviews, interview prep, and networking events, we’re here to empower students at every step of the internship journey.
Encouraging Inclusive Participation: We want to ensure that every student feels welcomed and supported in the application process. Through information sessions and outreach efforts, we’re committed to expanding access to internships and ensuring all voices have a chance to be recognized.
Celebrating Growth, Not Just Results: Awards will be given not just for “perfect” outcomes but also for resilience, creativity, and problem-solving in the face of obstacles. Our award criteria reflect a holistic view of student success, where growth is valued as highly as final accomplishments.
Congratulations to last year’s award winners! Your stories inspire us to keep finding meaningful ways to support students. And to those starting new internships this season, we’re excited to cheer you on every step of the way. Here’s to a year filled with opportunities, growth, and success—let’s make it one to remember!
