Funding Your Experience

Don’t let cost hold you back from the internship of your dreams.

If you accept an unpaid internship you will still benefit from the experience by developing knowledge, skills, and abilities, but you may be challenged to support yourself financially.  Here are a few options to consider if you choose to accept an unpaid internship:

Part-time internship/Part-time work

Consider interning part-time to build professional experience while working part-time to earn the money you need for your expenses.  Check out sites like Craigslist or Snagajob to identify options. If your schedule allows, work in a temporary job before or after your internship to earn more money.

Alternative compensation

Some employers are willing to offer perks (like covering your commuting costs) that will help offset the cost of accepting an unpaid internship.  Ask your employer for more information.

Limit your costs

If you have the opportunity to stay with friends or family in the city where your internship will be located, do it! If you need to identify your own housing, take a look at our housing resources for suggestions in cities that Wake Forest students often consider.

Limit the cost of earning credit

You can also limit the cost of earning credit through Wake Forest. If your employer requires you to earn credit during the summer, the least expensive option available is Business 181, a 1-credit class that any student, regardless of major, can take.  If your employer does not require you to earn credit during the summer, you might be able to arrange an independent study project, based on your internship experience, to be completed in the fall after your summer internship.