Dream Dollars


Program Description
This year the USC Career Planning & Placement Center will be offering a unique “scholarship” program for undergraduates. The USC Dream Dollars Program provides stipends for USC students who receive unpaid internships with a non-profit or government organization. This program is currently in its second year and will support students hoping to gain work experience from an unpaid internship. Students will be selected through an application and interview process. All internships must be a minimum of six weeks during the summer. The program provides a stipend of $1,200 for each student.

Program Objectives
The USC Dream Dollars Program aims to assist students in financing career exploration in the non-profit and government fields. Students will have the opportunity to gain a career development experience through the program.

Program Eligibility
Candidates must maintain good academic standing, and be currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at USC. Candidates must have a graduation date between December 2010 and May 2013. Students must have an internship prior to applying for Dream Dollars. Please contact CPPC Internship Advisors Lauren Opgenorth, laurenth@usc.edu or Llisa Williams, llisawil@usc.edu, if you need assistance finding an internship.

Application Process
Applications for the Summer 2010 are available online now here and at the Internship Programs Office of the Career Planning & Placement Center, STU B1. Applications and supporting materials must be completed and returned to the Internship Programs Office by 5:00pm on April 9, 2010. Candidates will be notified via e-mail by May 1, 2010 if they are selected for an interview with the USC Dream Dollars Selection Committee.

Please submit a complete packet, containing the following documents to complete the application process:

  1. Complete application form
  2. Current resume
  3. Academic Record Summary, available at the Registration Building (REG)
  4. Personal essay: a one page narrative explaining your current academic program, why you are interested in the USC Dream Dollars Program, how you think this internship experience will enhance your undergraduate experience and have an impact on your future.
  5. One letter of recommendation from a faculty member. No letters from peers or family members will be accepted. A faculty business card and/or department letterhead stationery are required. The letter should comment on applicant’s commitment to the non-profit and/or government sector.

Selection Process
Students will be selected based on their application, faculty recommendation, interview and internship. There is no minimum GPA requirement. Students are expected to demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills.