Do I have to find my own internship? How does the interview process work?

Yes. We do not guarantee any student an internship, though we do everything in our power to help students find one. The semester before a student participates, we share student information with industry connections in each participating city; however, we ask that students do not wait for a phone call to begin conducting their own search. Students need to be proactive in searching for opportunities that may be the best fit for them. Workshops will be held to discuss best practices during the internship search, and program staff will be readily available to assist with the entire process (helping with email wording, interview prep, etc.).

How many companies are in the pool of startups, and do I interview with all of them?

The number of startups in the pool varies in each city, and students typically do not interview with all of them. We do our best to align student interests with the best opportunities available for them.

Where are most of the internships located?

In San Francisco, it is highly recommended that students intern in the city of San Francisco, which is where recommended housing is located. Cities like Palo Alto, Mountain View and Menlo Park can be over an hour away by train, and students who have completed internships in these cities have noted that the commute takes away from their overall program experience.

What type of work will I be doing as an intern?

Students typically accept internships that most closely relate to their area of study. The work is meaningful and likely project-based, helping students build skills and experiences that will assist in future employment opportunities.

How many hours on average per week do interns work?

Students are expected to work full-time Monday through Thursday each week. The definition of “full-time” may differ by company, but students generally work from 8 or 9 a.m. to 6 or 7 p.m., if not later.

Are the internships paid? Is salary negotiable?

Most internships are paid; however, a paid internship is not guaranteed. Students that are paid have received compensation of anywhere from $300 to $3000 each month depending on the job responsibilities. Typically, programmers receive salaries at the higher end, marketers at the lower end, and designers somewhere in the middle.

Will there be company events on the weekends?

There are often company events outside of the normal workday. You will also be required to participate in networking events or activities each week. This can range from grabbing coffee with a new contact to attending a pitch event.

Potential Internship Companies

Friday Visit Companies

Is housing provided?

In San Francisco, it is highly recommended that you take advantage of apartment-style housing suggested by program management. This immersive program is meant to be an experience for the entire cohort, and living together is an essential part of the experience. However, students will sign individual leases directly with the property managers of the recommended housing.

That being said, exceptions are made on a case-by-case basis and are very rare. Housing costs in San Francisco are among the highest in the nation, and the housing designated by Miami University is in extremely safe areas. We recommend this housing to ensure student safety and an overall positive experience. Students have found that other low-cost options do not include the necessary amenities or allow them to remain close to their cohort, or are in potentially unsafe neighborhoods.

If a friend and I are both accepted to the same program, can we room together?

Probably. Students can designate a preferred roommate on their housing preference form, prior to signing their lease.

How much does the recommended housing cost? Are utilities included?

The recommended housing is approximately $1800/month in San Francisco, assuming double occupancy rooms. Utilities are included, as is cable and internet. If you are staying in the recommended housing, please note that your housing deposit will be due the semester before your participation (in March for fall and in October for spring), and in San Francisco the deposit is approximately $1500-$2000.

Is the apartment furnished?

Yes, the apartment will be furnished. This will include all necessary furniture and potentially towels, sheets, blankets, etc. Students only need to bring clothing and toiletries.

How many people are in each room? In each apartment?

Usually the rooms are double-occupancy. There may be single-occupancy rooms available, though the rent will be higher, and they are not guaranteed.

How do students get around in San Francisco?

Students use public transportation (bus/train) as well as other transportation options such as Uber and Lyft. Students are not permitted to bring cars to San Francisco. Occasionally, if a Friday visit or other program activity requires other transportation, the program will provide it.

Program Costs Tuition + Admin Fee + Program Fee + Personal Expenses = Total Cost

Total Paid to Miami University: Tuition + $175 + $650

Total Estimated Program Cost: Tuition + $175 + $650 + $7500