Internships are an amazing way (and sometimes required) to gain hands-on experience, develop hard and soft skills, and to get a glimpse into the day-to-day field students are considering. While there are a handful of internships that are paid, many internship experiences are unpaid and can create financial hardship for students. Thanks to the Shippensburg University Foundation Internship Opportunity Fund, students accepting unpaid internships to further their education can receive additional financial support. This grant was established in 2024 and has continued to gain interest.
This past semester, four students received grants from the SU Foundation Internship Opportunity Fund: Graduate students Alexandra Arp and Lasandra Spivey, and undergraduate students Alicia Camiloccia and Tida Jammeh.
Alexandra Arp is pursuing her Master of Social Work degree and anticipates graduating in May of 2026. She has been a mental health case management intern at the Cumberland County Prison for nine months. Through this internship, she has been facilitating groups for inmates such as art therapy, book club and life skills.
Alexandra felt empowered by this award as it allowed her to focus on her studies and internship over finding an additional source of income on top of her academic course load. “Find an internship that works well with your schedule so that you still have time for fun activities and self-care in your week. It should be a good experience, not a stressor. I would encourage everyone to make sure it is the right fit and complements your availability,” she said.
Tida Jammeh is pursuing her Master of Social Work and graduates this May. She has been an intern at Laurel Lakes Rehabilitation and Wellness Center since August of 2024.
In November 2024, Tida’s vehicle unexpectedly broke down, forcing her to use her savings on Uber rides just to get to her internship. Support from the SU Foundation Internship Opportunity Fund helped ease the financial burden of staying committed to her internship while she worked to resolve her transportation challenges. Tida’s piece of advice to anyone considering an internship is to “Communicate with your field instructor/ supervisor. Even if you think you may not get the answer you like you never know until you ask.”
*All recipients of the SU Foundation Internship Opportunity Fund were contacted to share their story
Are you a local business or professional who wants to support Shippensburg University students?
The SU Foundation Internship Opportunity Fund relies on annual giving from generous donors who believe in supporting students with unpaid internships. Your partnership can make a life-changing difference—while strengthening your connection with the next generation of talent. Join us in building a stronger future for our students and our region.
To make a gift, go to tinyurl.com/SUInternshipOpp
Are you a student looking for an internship?
Whether you’re just getting started or already have an opportunity lined up, the Career Center is here to help you find the right fit—and explore funding options like the SU Foundation Internship Opportunity Fund. This grant can help make unpaid internships possible, so you can focus on gaining experience, not worrying about expenses.
Connect with the Career Center today to explore opportunities and apply for funding!
