The New York Arts (NYA) Intern Program

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the New York Arts Intern Program?

The New York Arts (NYA) Intern Program, established in 2002, is a program through the University of Michigan Career Center that assists undergraduate students from all academic disciplines in finding art-related summer internships in New York City.

Through summer internships with art-related organizations, the New York Arts Intern Program attempts to provide students with actual work experience beneficial for exploring future career opportunities in the arts.

What does the program look for in candidates?

The NYA program accepts 20-30 undergraduates to the program each year. Applicants are selected based upon academic achievement, co-curricular and work involvement, outstanding character, and career motivation.

The NYA program also looks for applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to the year-long program. Students are required to attend monthly meetings and meet NYA Program deadlines during the Fall and Winter terms.

While the NYA Program tries to assist students in relieving some of the financial burdens associated with living in New York City for the summer, students must recognize the financial costs associated with interning in New York City (transportation, housing, entertainment, etc.).

What do NYA participants do throughout the academic school year?

Once interns have been selected for the program, they meet throughout the school year and are provided assistance in developing application materials, as well as advised about the necessary preparations to secure an internship.

During the fall semester, interns will develop resume and cover letter writing skills, learn how to create a professional portfolio, and explore career opportunities in the arts.

During the spring semester, interns will learn networking techniques, practice their interviewing skills, and explore the culture of New York City.

Where have NYA students interned in the past?

Museum of Television and Radio, Guggenheim, Exit Art, Knitting Factory, United for Peace and Justice, New Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Modern Art, Surface Magazine, Abigail Child Productions, and others…

What types of duties/responsibilities have previous NYA students had at their internships?

Assisted in photo shoots, organized museum’s collection of print information, managed special events, preformed administrative duties (answered phones, prepared mailings, ran errands), assembled clipping portfolios, edited film, oversaw educational and outreach programming, improved membership development, designed and refined client database, monitored marketing campaign

What happens during the summer?

Students often begin their internship in late May or early June.

The NYA Intern Program organizes housing for students at New York University (NYU). Housing is "apartment" style with students living with one or two other individuals. Students are not required to live in the NYU housing, but many do because of its great location, the number of amenities offered, and the reasonable cost.

Interns have the opportunity to utilize alumni connections to explore and network with individuals currently working in an art-related profession. A student program coordinator will provide students with cultural activities and events within New York City including presentations and tours related to the art field.