Summer Internship Programs

The Summer Internship Program, offered by the Career Success Center in partnership with Workforce Essentials, is a 10-week paid summer immersive experience for rising juniors and seniors at Austin Peay State University (APSU) to receive meaningful, hands-on opportunities in local economic development, business innovation, and community-focused initiatives. Interns are placed within the within the Clarksville-Montgomery County region. ​

For Students | Application Process

Please note the application window opens Monday, March 24, 2025. 

Interested full-time rising juniors and seniors should demonstrate their commitment by submitting an application that highlights their alignment with the program’s goals. Successful applicants should showcase a strong interest in gaining hands-on career experience within Montgomery County, a passion for community engagement, and a collaborative mindset. 

Program Eligibility

The APSU Summer Internship Program is open to undergraduate students who are eager to gain real-world experience while contributing to the economic and community development of Montgomery County.

To be considered, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Must be enrolled as a full-time APSU student during the Spring 2025 semester.
• Rising junior or senior status.
• Minimum GPA of 2.75. 
• Demonstrate interest in community engagement, leadership, or economic development.

Application Checklist

Please note the application deadline is Friday, April 11, 2025.

1. Prepare Your Application Materials

Resume: Highlight your educational background, work experience, skills, and relevant accomplishments.

Cover Letter: Write a compelling letter that explains your interest in the internship program and how your background aligns with the goals of our community initiatives.

Personal Statement: Provide a brief statement outlining your passion for community engagement, leadership, or economic development, as well as what you hope to gain from the internship experience.

For assistance with this make an appointment with one of your career success coaches.

2. Provide References

Include two professional or academic references who can speak to your qualifications and character.

3. Submit Your Application

All applications will be submitted via Handshake. To register or activate your Handshake account click here.

4. Interview Process (If Selected)

Selected students will participate in final interviews with representatives from Career Success and Workforce Essentials to determine which internship opportunities are the best fit based on their interests and skill sets.

For Employers | Application Process

Apply Now

By participating in this program, employers gain access to a pipeline of skilled student interns eager to contribute meaningfully to their organizations while developing critical workplace competencies.

Employer Requirements

The primary aim of our internship program is to equip students with hands-on experience in their fields of interest while contributing to local businesses and community initiatives. Employers will be expected to: 

• Define project(s), set clear expectations, and provide opportunities for skill development.
• Provide structured, supportive, and meaningful internship experience.
• Fund intern(s) at $6,000.00 subsidized amount.
• Designate a preceptor to mentor, supervise, and develop intern(s).
• Participate in program onboarding and closing activities.

By submitting this application, an employer agrees to provide a structured, supportive, and impactful internship experience for selected students. 

Financial Commitment

To foster a sustainable local talent pipeline, participating organizations are invited to contribute a financial commitment of $10,000. Thanks to a generous donation from Workforce Essentials, this fee has been adjusted to only $6,000, making it more accessible for businesses looking to engage with APSU students while promoting organizational visibility.

The $6,000.00 subsidized program commitment covers:

• Student Intern Compensation
• Summer Campus Housing & Dining
• Program Transportation
• Student Intern Recruitment, Placement, and Program Administration

Tentative Program Timeline

**Dates are subject to change.**

February 26: Employer Information Session and Launch

March 6 - 16: Employer Application Window

March 21: Employer Selections & Notifications

March 24 - April 11: Student Application Window

April 18: Student Finalist Interviews

April 21: Interns Selections & Placement Notifications 

April 21 - May 30: Program Onboarding Period

June 2: Internship Program Begins

August 8: Internship Program Ends