Program History

The Hispanic Interns in Community Service Program was created in 1988 and implemented in the State of New Jersey with the goal of exposing Hispanic college students to career opportunities in state government, or other area of public service, while allowing them to develop and strengthen professional skills in a conducive working environment. That summer 23 Hispanic college students from throughout the various colleges and universities in New Jersey were selected from a very competitive pool of applicants. These 23 interns were placed in state and local government offices throughout the State for 12 weeks.

In the summer of 1991, a new component was added to enhance and complement the experience gained by the program participants. The Latino Leaders Fellowship Institute was established in partnership with Rutgers University's Center for Strategic Urban Community Leadership. The purpose of this component is to develop and cultivate the leadership skills of the interns through weekly intensive training sessions. It complements the employment component by providing a greater opportunity for leadership development. Past Institution curriculum has covered topic such as:

• Dimensions of Latino Leadership
• Assessment of Latino Styles
• Developing Assertiveness and Inner Strength
• Conflict Resolution and Negotiation Skills
• Understanding the Legislative Process
• Developing a Vision for Self and Community
• Identifying Personnel Strengths
• Handling and Understanding Diversity
• Latino Issues and Demographics
• Fine-Tuning Interviewing Skills
• Techniques of Public Speaking

In 2001, a partnership between the CHPRD and PSE&G resulted in a new scholarship component. The CHPRD and PSE&G are pleased to continue this scholarship to students attending a college/university in New Jersey.

The Hispanic Interns in Community Service Program has established credibility in providing quality internship experiences to Hispanic college students.

Student Criteria:
Applicants must be residents of New Jersey, of Hispanic/Latino descent, and registered at a college or university with grade point averages of 3.0 or higher. Applicants will be selected on the basis of their overall grade point average and class standing. Each qualifying applicant is interviewed by a member of the Review Committee, which consists of alumni and the staff of the CHPRD. Internaitional students must have an F-1 visa to participate or be eligible to work.

Employer Criteria:
Interested corporate, government and non-profit organizations interested in participating in the professional development of Latino/Hispanic college students are invited to submit potential internship opportunities within their organizations. Sponsorship opportunities are available. All applicants are screened carefully to provide a superior quality match between employer and employee.

Applications


Intern Photos