Students will gain valuable hands-on experience in Camden city government

City of Camden City Hall
City of Camden City Hall

Camden City Council unanimously approved the Chancellor Mayoral Internship Program, a new five-year partnership between Rutgers‒Camden and the City of Camden that will allow students to work alongside civic leaders and learn the inner workings of city government. Students selected for the internship program will gain service-learning experience, participate in community outreach and build professional networks for careers in public service.

“This innovative internship will give Rutgers‒Camden students a window into how city government operates, supporting those who are already pursuing public service and inspiring a sense of civic duty in individuals from diverse academic backgrounds,” said Rutgers‒Camden Chancellor Antonio D. Tillis.

Each summer, beginning in June 2022, the internships will allow Rutgers–Camden students to spend eight weeks working alongside local government officials. Depending on their interests, skills and experience, participants will have the option to focus their internships on one of the following areas:

— Working with local government officials to beautify neighborhoods, develop neighborhood parks, tackle blight and strengthen community policing practices.

— Developing programs, events and conferences to provide high school students and families with resources to plan for higher education and careers.

— Collaborating with arts and historical organizations on initiatives that expand access to cultural programs in the community.

— Supporting efforts to attract new businesses to the city, cultivate job prospects for Camden residents and assist in expanding small business development.

— Supporting residents on housing and tenants’ rights issues as well as housing insecurity relief.

“As an anchor institution in the City of Camden, we are honored to partner with the city to offer students the opportunity to practice what they are learning and contribute to the growth and success of residents and the city,” Chancellor Tillis said.