Franklin & Marshall College Franklin & Marshall College

The Ware Institute for Civic Engagement

Internships

PSSI: Public Service Summer Internship

Program History and Focus

The Public Service Summer Internship (PSSI) Program was created in 1994 as a response to an institutional belief that a true liberal education includes making meaningful contributions to one's community.

This nine-week paid summer internship program helps students secure full-time internships in Lancaster County in areas such as: economic development, education, law, social justice, human rights, public health, environmental conservation, the Arts and government.

Under the guidance of carefully selected mentors/supervisors, and with one day a week spent on campus with academic and administrative supervisors, interns learn invaluable leadership and work skills. In addition, interns study and discuss a wide range of issues and problems facing Lancaster County while developing skills and techniques to serve the community.

 
Information for Community Partners

All applicants will be screened and selected by the Ware Institute through a very selective process. Once the eleven interns are selected for the program, they will receive a list of community partners interested in participating in the PSSI program and they will follow up with organizations to request interviews and facilitate an internship placement. 

Organizations should expect interested students to reach out by early March. Placements must be secured by April. 
The Ware Institute will provide a general training for the interns, and the placements for the 2013 cohort will begin on site on Monday, June 10, 2013 and conclude at the final luncheon on Friday, August 2, 2013.
 
Students will work a full work week for 32 hours/week (except for Wednesday when the students complete service projects and do reflection on F&M’s 
campus).
 
Selection of Interns 
All interns are paid $3,300 for the entire program. Students do not receive  credit. Rising sophomores, juniors and seniors are eligible to apply. The Ware Institute encourages applicants with the following traits to apply for PSSI:
  • A demonstrated commitment to community service and the common good.
  • Service in leadership positions on campus and/or participation in communitybased learning internships and/or internships for credit.
  • Ability to articulate a sincere interest in an agency's mission and how it correlates to their interests or career aspirations.
  • 2011 PSSI Interns
  • PSSI is about community-based learning and Lancaster!

  • Ten interns will be selected for paid internships to work in the Lancaster community for eight weeks in the summer (June and July). Each Wednesday, they gather at the Ware Institute for instruction, workshops and service projects.

    This internship experience enables students to make a significant contribution to the community while acquiring meaningful job experience that can impact career choices.

Key Dates

FEBRUARY 6-17: Application Period

JUNE 5-AUGUST 2: Program Dates

Course Credit: No Credit

Who Can apply: rising sophomores, juniors and seniors

Stipend: $3,300 for the entire program. Housing is not included.