Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) works with partners to create a strong economy that benefits the citizens of the Southern Virginia Region by promoting the region through marketing and public relations efforts.  The SVRA intern would conduct research and analysis for the region and aide in communications of the information through social media and other methods.

Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) is housed at IALR and works with the City of Danville and the counties of Halifax, Patrick and Pittsylvania to create a strong economy that benefits the citizens of the Southern Virginia Region by promoting the region through marketing and public relations efforts.  The SVRA intern would conduct research and analysis for the region and aide in communications of the information through social media and other methods.  As an integral part of the economic development team, the intern would need experience utilizing Excel, Word, and PowerPoint and enjoy collecting and analyzing data.  The intern needs to be sensitive with the use of confidential information.  While there is not a specific age or educational requirement, experience with collecting and disseminating data or utilizing social media and Microsoft Office would prove beneficial. Specific tasks could entail:

assisting with research on demographics, industry sectors, and locality profiles;
maintaining a database of information for review and analysis;
cataloging news articles, including clipping, organizing and scanning into the computer distribution system, or collecting news feeds and search information;
researching regional, local and industry issues;
helping to maintain regional profiles of demographics and econometric information;
assisting with meetings and events; and  
completing other projects as assigned.

Mentor:  Linda Hutson Green, Executive Director, SVRA

This is a paid experience; 8-week interns will receive a stipend of $2,600, paid in two equal installments after four weeks of demonstrated success.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

Internship Application via online form: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2017IALRinternapp
Personal Statement 
Financial Need Statement, OPTIONAL 
Resume 
Transcripts (unofficial are acceptable) of ALL college-level coursework (if applicable)
Two references from individuals capable of evaluating your work/abilities and/or academic experience (share link to online form at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2017IALRinternref)
The application must be submitted online along with the two reference recommendations. Please submit all other documents by email attachment to hr@ialr.org.  Include “Your Name – Summer Internship” in the subject line.

PERSONAL STATEMENT: As part of the process, each individual is asked to submit a short personal essay (200-300 words). The essay should discuss your academic and career plans, STEM interests (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics), motives for applying for the IALR Internship Program, and how you feel this experience will further your intellectual, educational, and career goals.

FINANCIAL NEED STATEMENT (OPTIONAL): This is a short essay (200-300 words) that explains why you would benefit from receiving an internship. How are you currently financing your education? What difficulties have you faced when paying for your education? What other forms of financial assistance have you applied for and/or received? Are you having difficulty securing FT employment? (Please note that ALL applicants are welcome to complete this part.)

STEM DISCIPLINES:

Biological Sciences (molecular, cellular, and organismal biology, environmental science, health) 
Computer and Information Science and Engineering (fundamental computer science, computer and networking systems, security, programming/coding and artificial intelligence)
Engineering (bioengineering, environmental systems, civil and mechanical systems, chemical and transport systems, electrical and communications systems, and design and manufacturing)
Geosciences (geological, atmospheric and ocean sciences)
Mathematical and Physical Sciences (mathematics, astronomy, physics, chemistry and materials science; accounting)
Education and Human Resources (science, technology, engineering and mathematics education at every level, pre-K to lifelong learning)
INTERNSHIP TIMELINE:

Deadline for completed application packet:  March 20, 2017 at 4:00pm (EST)
Candidate interviews (face to face or via Skype):  March 27 – 31, 2017 
Intern notification of selection:  April 5, 2017
Mandatory orientation dates (ALL interns):  June 5, 2017 OR June 12, 2017
 

INTERNS MUST COMPLETE THEIR TIME COMMITMENT BY AUGUST 11, 2017.  EIGHT-WEEK INTERNS ARE ALLOWED ONE WEEK OFF DURING THE PROGRAM FOR UNPAID VACATION (total time frame extended to 9 weeks). EXCEPT FOR THIS ONE WEEK, THE 8-WEEK INTERNSHIP MUST BE SERVED IN CONSECUTIVE WEEKS.

To be considered for the 2017 STEM Internship Program, candidates must be: a High School graduate with plan to attend college Fall 2017;  an undergraduate or graduate level college student; or a recent college graduate, within the last 12 months.

More information can be found at: http://www.ialr.org/index.php/advanced-learning/college-programs/summer-internships