In This Issue

• There are a limited number of spots available in JMC’s Spring Career Exposure Program

• Internships and job opportunities

• Career-related events

• New drop-in advising hours for field experience questions

• Student Spotlight: Edie Pawlak

Inclusion of any internship opportunity listed here does not constitute MSU’s/JMC's endorsement or support of any candidate, party or ballot measure. 

JMC Career Exposure Program

We’re looking for 1-3 motivated Madisonians to join our Career Exposure Program from May 4-6 in Detroit, Michigan!

This is your chance to dive into the array of careers your Madison degree can unlock, connect with alumni and employers, and get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at real workplaces. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore, network, and discover what life beyond JMC could look like!

This year’s itinerary will include visits with alumni working at: 

• ACLU of Michigan

• City of Detroit

• Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce

• Ford Motor Company

• U.S. Department of State

We’re also putting together exciting panel discussions focused on careers in labor and organizing and careers in the legal field, plus a coffee chat with folks who serve on JMC’s Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Applications will be reviewed and considered on a first-come, first-serve basis until 11:59 p.m. on April 1, 2026. 

Internship & Job Opportunities

National Security Agency Cooperative Education Program
The National Security Agency (NSA) is offering its Cooperative Education Program for students interested in gaining hands-on experience in intelligence, cybersecurity and advanced technology. Students work on real-world projects supporting national security missions while developing technical skills in areas such as computer science, engineering, cybersecurity, data science and mathematics. This paid internship is based in Fort Meade, MD, and follows a 52-week alternating schedule for school and work. Apply by March 31 via USA Jobs.

NSA Missouri Department of Transportation: Administrative Intern (emergency management) 
This position provides entry-level implementation of the department’s emergency management programs, assists with emergency communications and radio systems, and supports disaster recovery. Interns will assist with Central Office Emergency Operations Center activities and monitor transportation and infrastructure emergency management issues. This opportunity is located in Jefferson City, Missouri, and is open to all current students. Apply by March 31 via Missouri Careers.

Brand Protection Intern: MSU Center for Anti-Counterfeiting and Product Protection
This multidisciplinary, multi-year internship program is designed to provide MSU students with knowledge and practical experience in the field of brand protection and help develop their research and professional skills through internships. Apply by April 5 via Handshake.

Institute for College Access & Success Fellowships

• Student Advocacy Fellowship: This one-year program is a paid opportunity for students in Michigan to learn and practice policy research, analysis and advocacy skills. Students will receive training in relevant skills, complete a research project and publication, participate in meetings with legislators, receive support towards their career and postsecondary goals with success coaching, and receive a stipend. Apply by May 1 via TICAS.

• Leaders of Color Fellowship: This two-year program is an opportunity for practitioners and leaders of color in Michigan to learn and practice policy research, analysis and advocacy skills. Participants will receive training in relevant skills, complete a research project and publication, participate in meetings with legislators, manage a mini-grant opportunity, and attend a national conference. Apply by May 1 via TICAS.

Allen Neighborhood Center Fellowship Opportunities 
The Allen Neighborhood Center, a Lansing-based nonprofit dedicated to neighborhood revitalization and community well-being, is offering paid summer fellowships for students. Fellows will gain hands-on experience supporting programs across Lansing’s Eastside. Positions are 15 hours per week and pay $13.73/hour for students with work-study eligibility, or a $650 stipend for those without. Apply by July 12. 

Available fellowship opportunities include: 

• Community Farming Fellow – Work on an all-natural, sustainable local farm, growing food and flowers that nourish the Eastside community. 

• Community Engagement and Advocacy Fellow – Support neighbors through outreach, programs, and community events, while assisting with resources like affordable housing and utility advocacy. 

• Veggie Box CSA Fellow – Assist with the multi-farm CSA program, managing relationships with farmers and members and promoting local, sustainable food access. 

• Food Pantry and Farmers Market Fellow – Help manage food pantry and farmers market operations, marketing, communications, and community engagement. 

• Youth Programs Fellow – Support free youth programs that provide job skills, gardening, and nutrition education for children and teens. 

Summer Internship Opportunities with AHCA/NCAL 
The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) is offering paid summer internships for students interested in healthcare policy, technology and the senior living sector. Interns will gain hands-on experience and insight into the organization’s work supporting long-term care providers nationwide. The eight-week internships begin after Memorial Day and pay $20/hour. Available internship opportunities include: 

• Government Relations Intern: Support policy research, advocacy initiatives and communications related to federal legislation impacting long-term care. Apply via AHCA/NCAL Website 

• Information Technology Intern: Assist with data analysis and system improvements to strengthen internal data quality. Apply via AHCA/NCAL Website 

• National Center for Assisted Living Intern: Conduct research and support programs related to assisted living policy and industry initiatives. Apply via AHCA/NCAL Website

Career Events

Internships 101
March 31, 4:30 p.m. in 329 South Case. Learn about resources and strategies for finding and what satisfies the JMC Field Experience requirement. Learn more via JMC Events.
This event counts towards the JMC Career Readiness Badge.

Ask Us Anything: Grad & Law School
April 8, 4:30 p.m. in 329 South Case Hall. Join Karissa Chabot-Purchase and Lauren Michalak for a casual session, where they’ll draw from years of experience to answer any and all of your questions about the grad/law school exploration and application process. Register via Handshake.
This event counts towards the JMC Career Readiness Badge.

Fulbright US Student Program: Teach, Study or Research Abroad Info Session 
Learn about the Fulbright U.S. Student Program and how you can teach, study, or conduct research abroad after graduation. Open to MSU students (especially juniors and seniors) and recent graduates. These sessions will walk through eligibility, application tips, and the range of global opportunities available. All three sessions are identical, so you only need to attend one.  

• April 9, 5:30 p.m. in Room 201, International Center (with virtual option). Learn more via International Studies & Programs 

• May 8, 5:30 p.m., held virtually. Learn more via International Studies & Programs 

Express Advising: Internships & Education Abroad

Students with questions about internships and education abroad programs can meet with Field Experience Coordinator Lauren Michalak for drop-in advising on Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. in 329 South Case Hall.

Student Spotlight: Edie Pawlak

Edie is a Senior majoring in Social Relations and Policy and International Relations, with a minor in Political Economy. Learn more about Edie’s work with the MSU Student Food Bank below!

"I have had the opportunity to join the MSU University Health and Wellness team within the Student Food Bank and Basic Needs program. I get to save food that would otherwise be thrown out, and it gets to be used by students, faculty and staff who need it the most! I have learned about the inner workings of the food bank while also learning more about the external connections that it has. It's been super cool to know that I am directly having an impact on people in East Lansing. I think this semester I have helped save just under/around 10,000 pounds of food. I work twice a week, and on Thursdays I've saved around 7,000 pounds JUST THIS SEMESTER! Sorry, I just think it's so cool that the food bank and I are able to help those who need it most with the help of our community! When people come together for the common good, it can benefit everyone!”

“Also, anyone who makes under $47,000 dollars a year is technically food insecure. All you have to do is set up an appointment online and you can come and get food! I am so grateful that this program is able to help all MSU students, staff and faculty members. Not only has this filled my heart as I found a new way to serve my community, but I also have found a new career interest. I am looking forward to graduation and to seeing what my future in food banking could be! If you or anyone you know is looking for help within a food bank, please let me know!"

Learn more about JMC’s field experience requirement on the JMC website. Students interested in planning their internship can connect with JMC Field Experience Coordinator Lauren Michalak (schedule an appointment with her via student.msu.edu).

JMC Pop-Up Shop

Browse JMC’s mini spring pop-up shop with major-themed crewnecks online via Fabricated Customs. Sales close March 26.

Have a suggestion or submission for this newsletter? Contact Jane Deacon ([email protected]).