CHE in NYC Summer Internship

This summer, I spent eight weeks in New York City — fully funded by Cornell — doing an internship, making connections with alumni, and having a blast, all thanks to the CHE in NYC program.

A group of us students interned at various sites across New York City.

At Glamour Gals, a non-profit where teen volunteers connect with seniors to combat older adult isolation, I recruited teen volunteers and planned summer beauty makeovers for the seniors. Building those intergenerational connections was truly special.

At the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem, I implemented a food justice program for teens that educates them on nutrition and civic engagement. It felt so rewarding to empower the next generation to become advocates in their own neighborhood.

At New York Law School, I got to track the NYC Mayor’s primary race — researching candidates, analyzing their policies and creating a poll tracker. It was eye-opening to witness how research, data and policy come together to strengthen democracy in NYC. - 50

At the Mayor’s Office of Urban Agriculture, which oversees everything from community gardens to rooftop farms, I worked on projects to engage a broader community and encourage urban farming. I learned so much about how cities can grow greener and feed their communities better.

But it wasn’t all work — the program included field trips to museums, a Broadway show, and even kayaking on the Hudson River! We loved experiencing the sights and sounds of New York City!

We also had amazing professional development events, meeting alumni and building networks that will help us long after our summer internship.

This unforgettable summer wouldn’t have been possible without the CHE in NYC Internship Program – gaining real-world experience through community engagement, all while exploring one of the greatest cities in the world. Look out for the application opening this Fall!