This is a new record for the Office of Career Exploration and Development's funded internship program. Last year, when it also broke records, CXD gave out 188 grants. Eight years ago, the number of grantee was 80, according to CXD Executive Director Kristin Brennan.
The increase in grants is due to a growing number of donors, Brennan said. “This is a great story of donor generosity,” she continued, noting that one of Bowdoin's commitments—and a focus of the recent From Here campaign—is providing opportunities and resources to help students secure meaningful first jobs and build fulfilling careers.
Currently, about 38 separate funds support 233 awards—several of them established just in the past few years. “We’re seeing the fruits of that work and generosity,” Brennan added.
CXD’s funded internship program works like this: if a student secures an unpaid internship, they are eligible to apply for one of CXD’s $6,000 funded internship grants to help cover living expenses. Students receiving financial aid receive an additional $1,000.
The funds support entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, activists, and lifelong learners. They are not limited to specific sectors, fields, or types of jobs, reflecting the wide variety of student interests at a liberal arts college.
Most of the funded internship grants are given to sophomores and juniors, said Meg Springer, associate director of CXD. “Especially now, with the economy being what it is, many internships are unpaid,” she said. “But to leverage a paid internship the following summer or after graduation, students often need prior internship experience. Funded internships allow students to gain that experience, develop skills, and open up possibilities for the future.”
