CORNELL IN HOLLYWOOD INTERNSHIP FAQ
What is the Cornell in Hollywood internship program?
[back to top] The internship program includes both a 25-40 hour per week internship and a series of seminars and events to help students make the most of their time in Los Angeles and to launch their careers in Hollywood. The ten-week program begins in June and ends in August. Acceptance to this selective program is by application through Cornell in Hollywood. The deadline will be March 1.
Most of the events are roundtable discussions that allow students to ask questions to successful Cornellians working in the film industry. Past presenters have included producer Denise Di Novi (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Nights in Rodanthe), Paramount Vice President Lee Rosenthal, and screenwriter John Heffernan (Snakes on a Plane). Cornell in Hollywood has also sponsored panel discussions, film screenings, and a job seminar at FOX Studios.
In accordance with California state labor practices, some companies will require that students either obtain a credit letter or receive academic credit. Cornell University will provide a credit letter to undergraduates, or interns may enroll at a Los Angeles area college to receive the requisite credits to complete their internship. Graduating seniors will not be able to obtain a credit letter, and must register for an internship course at a college either near their home or in Los Angeles.
Housing is not provided for students participating in the Cornell in Hollywood internship program, but there are several resources available that students may use to find appropriate housing for themselves.
Cornell in Hollywood has teamed with Oakwood Worldwide to offer affordable fully and partially furnished temporary apartments for students. Oakwood will generate its summer housing prices in March, and students are encouraged to check back then for better rates. The following links may also be useful in finding a place to stay for the length of your internship:
Companies offering internships will specify whether their employees will need a car. While it is not a necessity for most internships, some companies do require interns to run day-to-day errands, for which reliable transportation is needed. Interns, of course, will be responsible for getting to and from their workplaces. For those without a car, the public transportation system is indispensable. The
Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority allows you to plan trips based on arrival time and cost, and breaks down fares and travel times for each segment of your trip.
Since none of the internships pay, can I get a paid job too?
[back to top] Sure. Most of the internships are not full time, so you could definitely seek out a job for your "down time." If you work for a chain store or restaurant at home, you could try to get summer employment with them. Otherwise, there are plenty of places in L.A. to find some summer employment. Much as with housing, you might check local university career center postings. Some people also pick up a second internship once they are here, and although that wouldn't be paid it would allow you to get some different experiences.
