Questions?
Contact DeansInternships@american.edu.
Bringing Community Stories to Life
Ellana Sloan, SOC/BA '17
Every person you meet has a unique and powerful story.
The first time Ellana Sloan worked at an off-location shoot was one of the most exciting days of her Dean's Internship at NBC4-Washington. She acted as the main assistant to NBC4's creative services producer, helping to finalize the shooting agenda, set up the scene, and time dialogue. Even minor tasks such as checking white balance or holding reflectors took on extra meaning because they were all part of bringing the story to life. For Ellana, it was exciting to capture people's emotions on camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between Dean’s Internships and other internships?
All internships offer students the benefits of experiential learning, but Dean's internships are distinguished in the following ways:
- You apply on your own for internships through an organization's website. If you are hired by a host party and distinguish yourself through your work, you may be invited to join the Dean's Intern program retroactively.
- Host partners strive to provide Dean's Interns with substantive responsibilities so that they may earn bylines and production credits. Dean's Interns can point to a compelling online portfolio of real-world experience through blogs and feature stories about their work.
- Dean's Interns are periodically invited to participate in School of Communication VIP receptions, Dean's Advisory Board meetings, and other highly-recognized events.
- The prestigious achievement of being named a Dean's Intern burnishes a student's reputation, builds a strong personal network of industry contacts, and demonstrates proven professional experience in today's competitive job market.
How do I apply for a Dean’s Internship, and what is the process for selection?
Each semester, internship positions are posted in the Career Center Handshake website. Employers will make final selections on top candidates that meet the criteria of the host party. After completing the majority of the internship, interns are encouraged to apply separately to the Dean's Internship program. Fall 2023 applications will open soon.
How soon will I hear from you after submitting my application?
Once you have submitted your applications online, you should receive an email confirmation.
Who can apply for Dean's Internships?
Dean's Internships are open to undergraduate juniors and seniors, graduate students, and recent alumni (within one year of graduating) with a School of Communication major or minor who have an overall GPA of at least 3.25. If you are not yet a junior, but will be one when the internship starts, or if you are at least a junior according to credit count, you may apply. We occasionally have opportunities for students who have recently graduated to work in full-time Dean's "externships" for the fall or spring following their graduation. You can also apply from abroad if you're away for the semester for the upcoming round.
Are Dean's Internships consistently offered each semester?
Yes. The Dean’s Intern positions offered may change. We generally offer 12 to 15 opportunities however, the number of available internships may fluctuate from one semester to another.
When will Dean’s Internships be posted each semester?
It depends! Usually, internships are posted mid-way through the term prior to the internship (October to November for spring internships, for example).
Will I automatically receive academic credit for a Dean's Internship?
No. As with any internship, you need to register for academic credit if your schedule permits it. Some Dean's Internships require academic credit; others do not. If you are interested in a Dean's Internship, you may discuss your credit options with your academic advisor.
Are Dean’s Internships paid?
We strongly encourage partnering organizations to pay their interns. Most provide hourly, weekly, or monthly stipends to students, and of course, all offer valuable on-the- job training. We ask that Dean’s Intern employers comply with relevant laws and Department of Labor regulations as outlined through AU’s Career Center.