The Envoy

Many students assume internships are out of reach, but Hunter College staff say CUNY students can access a wide range of opportunities if they take advantage of them. 

A career internship program in Hunter College’s Film and Media Studies department, part of the CUNY Inclusive Economy Initiative, connects students with internships and career pathways. 

Tara Leigh Chiari, an academic and career advisor, said CUNY students have access to a wide range of opportunities designed to support their transition into the workforce. 

“I think that CUNY students have a tremendous amount of opportunities,” she said, pointing to programs like CUNY Career Launch, CUNY Spring Forward, and Cultural Corps. “Our whole purpose is to help students land a career after college.”

Despite that access, many students struggle in the competitive job market, particularly in the film and media industry.

“It’s more competitive than ever in media,” Industry Employer Specialist Jeanie Ahn said. “There aren’t enough jobs to go around.”

Even with expanded access to programs, students still face challenges securing internships in New York City.

Chiari said many students struggle to balance internships with coursework and outside jobs, especially during the academic year. She added that gaining experience before landing a formal role can be extremely difficult for college students. 

She encourages students to build their skills through independent work, certification courses, and micro-internships. 

The Hunter College Micro-Internship Program, offered in partnership with Parker Dewey, allows students to complete short-term projects, often requiring 10 hours or less of work.

“You can make your opportunities,” she said. “It just takes initiative.”

Chiari also said platforms like LinkedIn and Handshake allow students to build a professional presence, connect with industry professionals, and stay informed about opportunities. She also encourages students to maintain strong profiles and engage actively on these platforms. 

Ahn and Chiari said CUNY students should take advantage of the resources available to them while in college.

“Students have all these ways to build their experience,” Ahn said.

For students in the film and media industry struggling to find paid internships, both Ahn and Chiari emphasized the importance of strategy and persistence.

Ahn recommended that students identify target companies and focus on building connections within those organizations. 

“It’s about the warm connections that will get you through your career,” Ahn said. 

Chiari added that students should spend time identifying their interests and exploring potential career paths. 

“It’s not about mapping it out perfectly,” she said. “You need to discover and explore,” 

Ahn said some departments at Hunter College have discussed opening similar CIE programs to other majors, potentially increasing access to career opportunities across the college. 

Learn more about the CUNY Inclusive Economy program and how it connects CUNY students with internships.