VEIC Hires Twelve Paid Summer Interns

VEIC has hired twelve students for paid summer internships in their Burlington offices. The internship positions range from market research and accounting to transportation efficiency research and engineering. The interns have been having a great experience so far - each of them reporting that they have been warmly welcomed to the office by VEIC employees and are building valuable skills and experience.

VEIC employees working with interns seemed positive about the experience across the board as well. Neil Curtis, the employee working with the Low Income Research Intern, felt that having an intern was bringing in innovation, a fresh eye and perspective on projects.  Richard Donnelly, a supervisor who has worked with interns for the past three years at VEIC, cited examples of how past interns have done research that has shown tangible results and that actually led to statewide initiatives, such as the GREEN REVOLVING FUND.

Something all of the interns had in common was that they thought this experience was helping them build valuable skills they will need in their future, and helping them network with a successful Vermont business. Tori Scarzello, the Buildings Performance Research intern, said that this internship experience will “…help me develop analytical skills related to my educational goals, and also allow me to develop critical networking skills that will help me further my career.”

VEIC was able to use the VBSR VT Intern program to attract and recruit students. With almost 100 applicants for the open positions, the VT Intern Program was able to help screen candidates and help VEIC narrow down the applicant pool. Using the Vermont Intern Program was of immense value to VEIC in their intern hiring process, and it was a simple and easy way for them to find their summer interns.

The VBSR Vermont Intern Program would like to commend VEIC for their fabulous work with interns since this program has begun. Thank you to VEIC and all of the other businesses who have participated in the VT Intern Program to help students gain experience and skills that are necessary in helping them achieve their future career goals in Vermont.  Thinking about hiring an intern this fall or want to learn more about the program? Please email BECKYC@VBSR.ORG for more info!

Think Spring!

Even though it feels like winter is just starting here in Vermont, it is time to start thinking about spring and summer internships. My email has been flooded with invitations to spring career fairs throughout Vermont, and it is a great time for students to get on board for spring positions. Spring semester is a great time to have an internship, because for many graduating Seniors it can transition into a longer term position and in some cases even into a full time job. For other students, it can also transition into summer employment that doesn't involve scooping ice cream or folding t-shirts.

So, now is the time to jump on the spring internship you have been thinking about! Visit our available internships page here to see what we have to offer. Have ideas about an internship that you don't see listed? Email me at beckyc@vbsr.org and we can brainstorm how to get you into the position you want!

Guest Post- VBSR's Own Intern Shares His Experience!

I have heard many times the conversation between someone who is an intern and someone who is not.  “You’re an intern?”  They would say, “What do you even do, get people coffee all day?”

    There is a misconception that interns everywhere are only going on coffee runs.  In reality, this is a stereotype.  I have been an intern at Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility since June 2011 and I can honestly say that working here has been awesome.  I am treated as a valued employee and a key part of this organization.  Through my work, I have learned so much about sustainability, local and small businesses, and environmentally friendly business practices.  In addition, VBSR has introduced me to many people around Vermont, from small business owners to the Lieutenant Governor.  And most importantly, I have never had to get someone coffee.

    My experience is not unique in the Vermont Intern Program.  If you are a college student, apply for an internship through the Vermont Intern Program.  You will learn new skills, have new experiences, and meet new people, all while being a key part of a local small business or company.  Lastly, a great perk is that all internships through the Vermont Intern Program are paid.