Internship program

At ASCENDtials, our Internship Program offers students from all majors the chance to expand their knowledge and gain practical experience through hands-on engagement with nature. This program is designed to reconnect students with the natural world, fostering self-awareness and a deeper understanding of our relationship with the environment. As we navigate an increasingly technological world, maintaining a balance with nature is essential for our health—mind, body, and spirit. If you’re ready to explore a holistic approach to education, our internship program is for you.To apply for an internship, complete our application or apply via your Handshake account below.

FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM

Our ASCEND fellowship program annually selects up to 12 fellows from U.S. and international institutions to explore ancient Kemet’s decolonization through art. Participants engage in healing sessions, Kemetic Yoga, and climate-centered activities, focusing on environmental and human preservation. The program culminates in an exhibition where fellows share their experiences and the impact of their work.

If you are interested in gaining valuable experience in the African Arts as an ASCENDtials Fellow, then please reach out to us at info@ascendtials.org! The Fellowship program follows the school year and will begin accepting applicants for the 2027 program in early 2026. Stay tuned!

iNTERNSHIP PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

hOLISTIC EDUCATION

Our program offers a holistic view of education by connecting you with the elements—Earth, Fire, Water, and Air. This connection deepens your understanding of their role in preserving both the environment and humanity.

pRACTICAL eXPERIENCE

Interns will support research in their chosen field, participate in literacy workshops, and engage in activities that promote sustainable practices.

cOMMUNITY IMPACT

Your work as an intern will help bridge gaps in learning, offering a broader perspective on self-awareness and collective responsibility.

Current Interns

Gisselle Cortez

Ruixi Zhang

Graphic Design

Social Media

Kailar Ahn

Luna Su

Business Development

Social Media Marketing

monthly job fairs

ASCENDtials hosts monthly online Job Fairs, providing a wide range of internship and volunteer opportunities across various industries. Whether you’re interested in copywriting, fundraising, event support, grant writing, UX design, or web programming, there’s a place for you here. These virtual job fairs offer the convenience of participating from anywhere, allowing you to explore roles and connect with potential employers from the comfort of your home.

Join the team and become one of our interns

available positions for interns

Web Programmer

Event Coordinator and Social Media Lead

Poetry and Writing Club Intern

Book Club Intern

Videographer

Program Manager/Team Lead

Fundraising Coordinator

FAQs for interns

What are my hours?

You are expected to be available Monday through Friday between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. PST.
You can take your lunch and breaks when you need them.
Your work will be a combination of online and in-person workshops. If your internship is ten hours per week, then a minimum of 3 hours per month will be in workshops. If you attend in-person workshops, you can attend up 10 hours a month of workshops, and 70 hours of other ongoing programming duties. All hours must be documented weekly through the timekeeping app.

Who do I contact when…?

I need to request time off?

Notify your supervisor as soon as possible, at least a few days prior to the time you would like to take off. Please avoid notifying your supervisor with only one day’s notice. If this is unavoidable, please secure your own replacement substitute and inform your supervisor of the change

I’m having issues with a coworker?

Contact your lead or the Director

I don’t know what to do or how to do this type of task?

Contact your lead or the Director

Are these Paid Positions?

These aren't paid positions. Students are able to receive credit and letters of reference in addition to valuable skills and tools lasting a lifetime.

What is the social media policy?

Please do not spend time on social media during work hours.
Please refrain from posting about your internship and our organization on social media without prior approval.

Do we have events planned for outside of the office?

We do have events outside of the office.
The workshops and other events in San Diego are sanctioned as part of your hours. You are encouraged to attend online sessions if you are unable to attend in person; these still count as part of your required intern hours.

Do we have any requirements towards students, like the major they are studying or specific skills they should possess, for example, languages?

We allow students to apply based on interest and experience in the role. Each role is different and will specify the requirement. We also require a resume and proof of enrollment.

How often should I check in with my supervisor?

At least once a week. On your first day, you will be given a recurring meeting time with your team lead and the hiring manager.

What if I’m bored?

Ask coworkers if they need help on any projects.
Read the provided learning materials.
Ask your lead for something to do!

What if I’m overwhelmed?

Talk to your mentor to ensure you’re understanding the project expectations correctly.
Talk to your lead to reevaluate expectations or talk about your workload.

When does my internship end and what happens when it’s over?

Our internship ends in June or after the semester ends (typically six months).
When your internship is over, you will complete an evaluation process with your lead and the hiring manager assigned to you. Your lead will be able to discuss the next steps with you. Once you have completed your internship, you are encouraged to apply for any open positions.

What happens if I break a rule or mess up on a project?

Dont worry. Everyone makes mistakes. Interpret any course corrections as constructive criticism. Your lead may inform you of a mistake, but this is a learning opportunity for you and you should not feel as though you are in trouble.
In extreme circumstances, you may have a meeting with the hiring team to discuss your understanding of organizational policies.

What is the expected workload, in hours per week?

Most interns are expected to work up to 20 hours per week, and according to the course or partner schools stipulations, and be available from 10 am to 2 pm PDT. They can apply directly on our website using the web application. They can schedule a call with us or show up during the job fair hours to meet with our hiring team, all through the website. We require a resume and proof of enrollment.

How long is the internship period?

Internships follow school terms and are three to six months in length, follow a syllabus, have expected outcomes and regular check-ins with mentors, with presentations and learning sessions and deliverables.

current fellows

Artist Fellows for 2026-2027

Details coming soon

former fellows

MONET NYREE PANZA

Monet Nyree Panza

Monét Nyree is a multifaceted creator from San Diego, California. She endeavors in graphic design, photography, collaging, performance art, and muse work. She has experience uplifting youth as an art instructor and is excited to continue doing so with the ascendtials team.

Monet Nyree Panza

501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization

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