Career Exploration and Development

Winter Term Micro-Internships

Turn your Winter Term into a meaningful career experience.

Work on meaningful projects with employers, alumni, nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations while building experience, exploring career paths, and preparing for what's next.

Start Your Application 

Oberlin student Vivian Adkins works on a stained glass project during her Winter Term Micro-Internship at Verite Stained Glass Inc.
Vivian Adkins '28 completed a Winter Term Micro-Internship at Verite Stained Glass Inc., where she gained hands-on experience while exploring careers in the arts and skilled trades.
Photo credit: Tanya Rosen-Jones ’97

What are Winter Term Micro-Internships?

Winter Term Micro-Internships are short-term, experiential learning opportunities that help Oberlin students explore careers, develop professional skills, and prepare for future internships and careers.

Why Participate?

Through a Winter Term Micro-Internship, you will:

  • Explore career possibilities and discover what inspires you.
  • Gain hands-on experience by working on meaningful, project-based assignments.
  • Develop professional and transferable skills that prepare you for the future.
  • Expand your network by connecting with industry professionals.
  • Build confidence by applying your knowledge in real-world settings.
  • Make a meaningful impact while contributing to organizations and communities.

Eligibility

  • Winter Term Micro-Internships are open to all Oberlin College students, regardless of major, who are interested in exploring careers, developing professional skills, and gaining hands-on experience.

  • Students may participate in a CED-curated micro-internship or secure their own Winter Term micro-internship. Both options are eligible for Winter Term credit through CED.

  • First-year international students on F-1 visas are not eligible to participate because Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is available only after completing one full academic year (two semesters) and declaring a major. Once CPT eligibility requirements are met, students may participate in future Winter Term Micro-Internships and summer internships.

Oberlin student participating in a Winter Term Micro-Internship at Kendal at Oberlin by reading with a resident.

Ella Yates '26 during her Winter Term Micro-Internship at Kendal at Oberlin, where she supported residents through meaningful engagement and conversation.
Photo: Don Gregory

How to Participate

Step 1: Explore Opportunities

Step 2: Accept Your Internship

Step 3: Complete Your Registration

Choose a CED-curated opportunity through Handshake or secure your own micro-internship. 

Need help finding/reaching out to potential employers? Schedule an advising appointment

Once you've secured your micro-internship, confirm your participation before the deadline.

Submit the CED Winter Term Experiential Learning Application to register your micro-internship and apply for funding if needed.

 

Funding Support

CED offers funding of up to $750 to help offset expenses related to your Winter Term Micro-Internship.

Funding may be used for:

  • Travel to and from your internship site
  • Local transportation
  • Housing
  • Food

Students with high and very high financial need, as determined by the Office of Financial Aid, receive priority consideration.

How to Apply for Funding

Funding is requested through the CED Winter Term Experiential Learning Application, the same form used to register your Winter Term Micro-Internship.

You'll need:

  • Internship information
  • Employer offer letter or confirmation email
  • Estimated expenses
  • Statement of financial need 

Start Your Application

Getting Started

How do I choose a Winter Term Micro-Internship?

Choose an opportunity that aligns with your interests, career goals, and the skills you'd like to develop. Whether you're exploring a new field or gaining experience in an area you're already passionate about, Career Exploration and Development (CED) can help you identify opportunities that are a good fit.

If you need guidance, schedule a career advising appointment or visit drop-in hours for support.

When should I get started?

It's never too early to begin exploring Winter Term opportunities. Most CED-curated micro-internships are posted in Handshake beginning in mid-September, with new opportunities added throughout the fall. Starting early gives you time to prepare your application materials and explore a variety of options.

Can I find my own internship?

Yes. In addition to CED-curated opportunities available through Handshake, you may secure your own Winter Term Micro-Internship. CED can provide guidance throughout your search and sponsor eligible self-secured internships for Winter Term credit.

Applying

How do I apply?

Apply to CED-curated Winter Term Micro-Internships through Handshake. Most opportunities require a resume and cover letter, while some employers may request additional application materials. Be sure to review each internship posting carefully for specific requirements and deadlines.

Need help preparing your application? CED offers resume reviews, career advising appointments, and drop-in support.

Should I apply to more than one opportunity?

Yes. We encourage you to apply to several opportunities that genuinely interest you. Applying to multiple positions can increase your chances of securing a Winter Term Micro-Internship while giving you more options to consider.

What happens after I apply?

Some employers may contact selected applicants for an interview, while others make decisions based on application materials alone. Be sure to monitor your email and voicemail regularly and respond promptly to any employer communications.

Participation

What happens after I receive an offer?

Before accepting an offer, take time to review the internship details, ask any remaining questions, and consider factors such as travel, housing, transportation, and scheduling. Once you've accepted an offer, notify any other organizations where you are still being considered as a professional courtesy.

What happens after I accept my internship?

After accepting your internship, complete the Internship Information & Funding Assistance Application (IIFAA) by the published deadline. CED will guide you through the remaining registration process and provide information about any required next steps.

Will remote opportunities be available?

Yes. Depending on the employer, Winter Term Micro-Internships may be offered in person, remotely, or in a hybrid format. Each internship posting will indicate the expected work arrangement.

Funding

Is funding available?

Yes. Students participating in a CED-sponsored Winter Term Micro-Internship may apply for up to $750 to help offset eligible internship-related expenses, including travel, local transportation, housing, and food. Students with high or very high financial need receive priority consideration.

How do I apply for funding?

Funding is requested through the Internship Information & Funding Assistance Application (IIFAA), the same form used to register your Winter Term Micro-Internship. You'll be asked to provide information about your internship, estimated expenses, and financial need. Funding deadlines and application details are listed in the Funding Support section of this page.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

If you have questions about Winter Term Micro-Internships, Career Exploration and Development is here to help. Schedule a career advising appointment, visit drop-in hours, or contact the CED team for assistance with exploring opportunities, preparing your application, or navigating the process.

Program at a Glance

When  

During Winter Term (January)

Eligibility

All majors

Format

In-person, hybrid or remote

Funding

Up to $750

Application Period  

September–November

College of Arts and Sciences Admissions
(800) 622-6243 or (440) 775-8411
38 E. College St., Oberlin, OH 44074

Conservatory of Music Admissions
(440) 775-8413
39 W. College St., Oberlin, OH 44074

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