Information for Applicants

Thank you for your interest in the Siena College Summer Service Scholars Program. We have created a multi-tiered recruitment process to ensure that each intern is appropriate for this program and is placed at the best organization possible. Please note you will need to submit a cover letter and resume as part of this application. Please make sure that the cover letter is specific to our program and that the resume is up to date. These are the documents that we send to our partner sites to help them make decisions about which scholars choose.

Important Dates to Keep in Mind: 

Please note that at this point you have been accepted into the program.  These interviews are to decide which placement is best for you.

AmeriCorps or VISTA AmeriCorps? Which position is for me?

The internships in this program are all vetted and carefully chosen to give each scholar a challenging and rigorous experience.  Initially, you should look at the description of the position and issue area that you will be working with in order to make an informed decision about the which positions you would likely be able to participate in. Each position is funded by one of two AmeriCorps programs: AmeriCorps or VISTA AmeriCorps. 

*While we try to accommodate your preferences for sites and the type of funding you need, placements are ultimately made by the Office of Academic Community Engagement based the skills of interns and needs of our partners.

Direct Service/Hands-On (AmeriCorps funded only)

The hands on position involves the intern working directly with the under served population to have an immediate impact on the group they are helping. If you are looking for a position where you can be more active with the population you are interested in working with:

• You must complete a minimum of 300 hours over the 10 week (49 day) internship period. This translates to a minimum of 6-7 hours per day.
• You will receive an educational award of $1,172.00 to be applied to any qualifying student loan or tuition.
  
• There is no stipend but you are allowed to work outside of your internship hours.

Indirect Service/Behind the Scenes (VISTA AmeriCorps Funded)

The behind the scenes position involves planning these events as well as doing the work that will benefit the underserved population in a more long-term sense. These positions often require a lot of computer work and less connection with the community being served.

• You will work full-time for the 10 weeks (49 days)
• You will receive a stipend of 1,854.00. At the end of your term you will also have receive an end of service stipend or an educational award to be applied to any qualifying student loan or tuition.
  
• You may hold a job outside of this internship placement. 

Contact Us 

If you have any questions regarding Summer Service Scholars, please contact Ruth Kassel, PhD at rkassel@siena.edu, or (518) 782-6951.