Intern Foundry Program FAQ’s

Q: What is the Foundry?

A: The Foundry Community is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit located in downtown Lincoln with a

mission to support, educate, and develop the purpose driven community of Lincoln

and Nebraska. The Foundry is an organization committed to “helping the helpers”

and has purpose as a centering theme and value in everything we do – talent and

capacity, organizational incubation, and co-working. For more information about

the Foundry, visit https://thefoundry.co/ .
 

Q: Why the Foundry?

A: The Intern Foundry program stands out for its unique focus on professional development and purpose-driven work. As an intern, you’ll engage in meaningful projects that enhance key skills such as communication, problem-solving, and the ability to transfer knowledge across various fields—competencies that are central to the Honors experience. Additionally, the program provides valuable training in project management, preparing you to lead and collaborate effectively in real-world settings. Beyond skill-building, you’ll be part of a vibrant, supportive community at the Foundry, where you can connect with like-minded peers and mentors who are passionate about helping you grow both personally and professionally.

Q: Is this internship paid?

A: Yes! The Intern Foundry Program pays $15/hour for 8 hours a week.
 

Q: What are the key dates and requirements for the Spring 2025 Intern Foundry program?

A: The Spring 2025 Intern Foundry program includes several important dates and required events that interns should be aware of:

• Intern Foundry Program Kickoff: Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. (Required, unless there is an in-person class conflict)
• Project Management Training: Interns have the option to choose one of the following training options:
  • January 8-10
  • January 13-15
  • January 15-17

Each session includes up to 18 hours of paid, in-person training from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., with up to two hours of additional paid unscheduled work time. This training covers project management, preparing an internship plan, introduction to purpose-driven industries, team building, and self-awareness. Interns will also have the opportunity to schedule up to three 30-minute paid coaching sessions with coordinators throughout the semester.

• Spring Internship Duration: January 21 – May 9, 2025
• Intern Foundry Program Celebration: Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. (Required, unless there is an in-person class conflict)

These dates are crucial to ensuring interns get the most out of their experience in the program.

Q: How do I earn my 99H credit through the Intern Foundry program?

A: To earn your 99H credit, you’ll need to participate in five required paid sessions as part of the continuation of the Intern Foundry training and development program. These in-person sessions are held at the Foundry (located just two blocks south of campus in downtown Lincoln) on the following Fridays from 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.:

• February 7
• February 21
• March 7 (mid-term evaluation)
• March 28
• April 11

These sessions will cover a variety of topics, including community impact speakers, team building, and personal and professional development. Additionally, any homework for the 99H course will be completed during class in the form of reflections.

Additionally, the required pre-internship Project Management training, which takes place in January, will provide up to 18 hours of in-person training and is also a crucial part of fulfilling your 99H credit requirements.

Q: Is the IF program in person or remote?

A: There are 30 different positions available through IF, and all of them look different. Your supervisor will communicate with you whether your position is in person, remote, or a hybrid.

Q: Are there training sessions with this internship?

A: As part of the Intern Foundry program, students are required to receive paid project management training with three different session options to choose from:

• January 8-10
• January 13-15
• January 15-17

Each training session includes up to 18 hours, scheduled between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. daily, along with up to two hours of paid unscheduled work time. This in-person training will cover essential areas such as project management, preparing your semester internship plan, an introduction to purpose-driven industries, team building, and self-awareness.

Additionally, interns will have the chance to participate in up to three 30-minute paid coaching sessions with Intern Foundry Coordinators throughout the semester to support their growth and development.

Q: Do I need experience to Apply to the Intern Foundry?

A: The Intern Foundry selection process is competitive and assesses students in the following categories related to their experience: 

• Application professionalism
• Diversity of experience (brought in and/or desired)
• Focus on purpose
• Career Interest and Connection

Students of all ages are encouraged to apply for Intern Foundry, although the program is specifically designed for Sophomores and Juniors. A diversity of students have been selected for past Intern Foundry cohorts – some with work experience, some with no work experience – and anyone interested is highly encouraged to apply.