Summer Intern Program                 Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service


Summer Intern Program for College Students

The University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service is an educational resource for all Kentuckians.   In a combined effort with on-campus faculty & specialist, its 120 county offices serve as an off-campus, educational arm, extending the University to build better communities and improve quality of life.

The Extension Summer Intern Program allows college students to work in a professional role in one of our County or State Extension Offices for 12 weeks during the summer. By working closely with County Extension Agents or Extension Specialist, students learn if Extension is a career they would like to pursue upon graduation. The program's success is enhanced by the inclusion of a diverse group of students, some who have prior knowledge of our programs and some who do not.

The Summer Intern Program includes these features:

1. There is a County Extension Office in every county in Kentucky . The internship may also be in a state or area office, working with an Extension Specialist.

2. Extension professionals work in the areas of Family & Consumer Sciences, Agriculture & Natural Resources, and 4-H Youth Development. Interns are assigned to an area according to their background and interest.

3. Our interns have had a variety of majors. Family and Consumer Science and Agriculture majors are needed for working in these two areas, however, the 4-H/Youth Development positions do not have a required major.  An interest and desire to work with young people is most important. Some of our students working in this area have had majors in education, social work, recreation, public relations, and psychology.

4. Interns learn first-hand if Extension is a career they would like to pursue. Many of our current County Extension Agents were at one time Summer Interns.

5.  A limited number of paid internships are available at $1500.00 per month.  Additional intern positions are available for college credit without salary compensation.

7. Interns must have completed at least four semesters (sophomore or junior status).  Preference is given to juniors and seniors.

8. Depending on their placement, the interns’ roles will vary greatly.  Interns can expect that as part of their professional role they may be interacting a great deal with the public, giving presentations, taping radio programs, writing newsletters or news articles, attending one week of 4-H Camp, and participating in Extension sponsored meetings and field days.

Review of applications will begin January 5.  Interviews will continue through February. Applicants should know by March if they are selected for a position.

To apply for an Extension Summer Intern position, students need to complete and return an official application form with an official copy of their college transcripts.

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