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Semester in the City (Outgoing Program)

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Fact Sheet:
Fact Sheet:
Language of Instruction: English Click here for a definition of this term Minimum GPA: 2.75
Program Features: Internship Click here for a definition of this term Housing Options: Apartment
Departmental Approval: Arts Administration, Black Studies Language Requirement: No
Credit Type: Transfer Credit Non-Skidmore Student: No
Click here for a definition of this term Class Year: 02- Sophomore, 03- Junior, 04- Senior
Program Description:
Semester in the City is a fully-credited fellowship program that gives undergraduate students the opportunity to spend a semester in Boston learning hands-on through well-supported internships in the social sector. Participating students join us as Social Innovation Fellows and participate in a transformative 15-week program that allows them to address current social issues while developing essential skills and networks that prepare them for life and work after graduation. Learn more here.

SOCIAL INNOVATION FELLOWSHIP

During their Semester in the City, Fellows will intern with a nonprofit, social mission business, or government agency for 30 hours per week. Fellows will gain work-based experience, allowing them to learn more about themselves and their passions while also building their skills and networks. 
We work with students to place them in an internship aligned with their interests, be it criminal justice reform, education, gender equality, environmental sustainability, or beyond. While every placement will be a little different, each Fellow will have a dedicated mentor to help them thrive.
Check out where we've placed our Fellows.
 

WHAT MAKES OUR INTERNSHIPS GREAT

Some aspects that make our program unique include the fact that we match students with their internship based on a variety of factors such as their passions and interests, there is a dedicated mentor at the internship site, and students focus on a special project throughout the semester. We do the heavy lifting of finding students an internship placement, and we put supports in place to make sure students and the host organizations can thrive. This allows students to immerse themselves into the culture of their internship sites and make a meaningful contribution.
 

Classes

As a Social Innovation Fellow, you’ll also take two courses, taught by our staff. Curriculum focuses on social innovation and the social impact sector, and also gives you ample time to reflect on your internship work. Our classes are a key part of our holistic approach to experiential learning and internships: you’ll learn theory in class and put it to practice at your internship, maximizing your growth both inside and outside the classroom. The homework load is between 3-5 hours per week on average. The classes are multidisciplinary, discussion-based, and are really curated to help you get the most out of your internship and develop a deeper understanding of how to solve problems.

SOCIAL INNOVATOR’S TOOLBOX

The Social Innovator's Toolbox course is a weekly seminar on Wednesday evenings from 4-7pm that exposes students to the field of social innovation through case studies, guest speakers, short readings, and interactive, student-led work. Through a series of field-tested assignments, or “deliverables”, students are introduced to and practice applying different concepts and methods from social innovation, social entrepreneurship, sustainable development, nonprofit management, and social impact evaluation to their specific work in their internships. Boston is our classroom, so distinguished guest speakers share their stories and perspectives on a wide range of social issues, and students facilitate small group discussions. Dinner is provided.
 
students doing an activity with craft supplies at a table
students talking with each other during a class activity

BECOMING A PROBLEM SOLVER

Becoming a Problem Solver is our Friday hands-on course that builds the skills of students as change makers for social good. Fellows participate in skill-building and reflective workshops designed around our core skills of launching a purpose driven career, working in diverse teams, persuasive communication and human centered problem solving. Reflection plays a big role on Fridays whether by journaling, through discussion in pairs and small groups, or by writing a culminating reflection essay. Fellows practice new concepts and skills every week and engage in team-based community research projects, craft a three-minute speech they deliver at graduation, and develop their professional on-line profile and portfolio of work. Breakfast and lunch are provided.
 


Dates / Deadlines:
Dates / Deadlines:
Term Year App Deadline Decision Date Start Date End Date
Spring 2025 10/15/2024 ** Rolling Admission TBA TBA

** Indicates rolling admission application process. Applicants will be immediately notified of acceptance into this program and be able to complete post-decision materials prior to the term's application deadline.