About
Each year the Department of Environmental Protection takes advantage of the Governor’s Internship Program to hire college students during the summer. Should you have an interest in this program, please refer to the West Virginia Governor's Internship Program website and follow the directions for students. This website usually starts accepting applications for the current year in February.
Mission
The Governor's Internship Program offers high-achieving college students the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into the world of experiential learning by
participating in coordinated internships in private businesses, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. Students gain knowledge of the real world work
environment, learn valuable communication and leadership skills, obtain experience and gain references for the future. These opportunities are a great way for the
student to explore interests and consider future careers.
Program Information
The Governor’s Internship Program assists college students in locating meaningful summer employment within West Virginia government agencies,
private businesses, and nonprofit organizations.
Ideally, students are placed in internships where they can gain experience relevant to their academic interests while learning under and being
supervised by a professional in that field. Internships generally last nine to thirteen weeks during the summer and pay at least minimum wage.
Eligibility
An applicant must have a cumulative college/university GPA of 3.0 or greater. NO EXCEPTIONS!
An applicant must have completed at least one academic year of study at an accredited college or university by May 2020. High School graduates who have taken college courses prior to graduation from High School are NOT eligible.
An applicant must be a currently enrolled student at a West Virginia college or university, or a West Virginia resident attending an accredited college or university elsewhere.
Selection Process
The selection of interns is highly competitive and host agencies that participate base their selection process on the degree area that is needed for
the internship at the time. Participating state agencies, private business and organizations are granted access to the database of candidate
applications, and then they set up the interview with their desired candidate. This is when the applicant would bring their unofficial transcript
and recommendation letters. The number of students applying usually exceeds the number of positions available; therefore, not all candidates
submitting an application will be interviewed or selected to participate in the program.
Summer Enrichment
Throughout the summer, the Governor’s Internship Program sponsors enrichment events for the interns. These enrichment events vary in scope and can include networking,
outings, and tours of the West Virginia State Capitol, the Governor's Mansion, and the West Virginia State Museum.