General Internship Opportunities: Cornerstones internships are a great learning experience for anyone interested in learning about their community through the eyes of a local social services organization. Cornerstones offers intern placements, from high school students to masters candidates, in nearly all of its programs and departments, including but not limited to, the food pantry, community organizing, advocacy (public policy, collective impact), housing, youth programs, health/nutrition, development, administration, integrated health and human services programs and data/evaluation. Some internships are short-term while others may last several months.
Internships time requirement vary according to the needs but can an average 2-3 days per week, with 4-8 hour days (weekdays), or as prescribed by a university program. Some internships may require time in the evenings and/or on the weekends.
Compensation: Internships are unpaid in most cases, although some outside internship partnerships offer compensation. Regardless, Cornerstones internships offer a rewarding learning experience with a unique, innovative and well-respected local non-profit social services organization.
Academic Credit: Academic credit for the internship is at the discretion of your college or university. Cornerstones will assist you in providing appropriate information as your school requests. Make all arrangements for earning credit before you begin the internship.
Application: There is no application deadline although application materials should be submitted at least 2 months prior to the planned start date of the internship. Internships are roughly seasonal (winter/spring, summer, and fall).
MSW Internships
For Master of Social Work (MSW) candidates, each year first year (foundation students) masters’ level students from local universities apply to Cornerstones for an eight-month (two semesters) social work internship (usually September through May). The universities include but are not limited to: George Mason University, Howard University, and Catholic University of America. The university’s MSW program must be accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. An MSW internship at Cornerstones provides the intern with hands-on experience in the field of social work while benefiting Cornerstones with increased capacity.
Application: For MSW interns, interviews, reference checks, and acceptance letters are generally coordinated in the spring prior to intern’s fall semester. Submission materials include:
- Online internship application (or request application at from betsy.doud@cornerstonesva.org.)
- Resume
- Personal statement (no more than two double-spaced pages):
- Explain what an internship with Cornerstones would mean to you.
- What goals do you want to accomplish?
- Describe your previous social service experience, if any. Include the name of the organization, how long you served, and your duties/responsibilities.
- Describe your activities that demonstrate your commitment to your community. Why were they important to you?
To apply, please send resume, internship application, and personal statement to: Cornerstones, MSW Internship Administrator, 11150 Sunset Hills Road, Suite 210, Reston, VA 20190 or by email to betsy.doud@cornerstonesva.org. Interviews will only be considered after resume and application materials are received.
Questions about the MSW Internship? Contact Betsy Doud at betsy.doud@cornerstonesva.org.
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