Is the BLAC internship paid?
Yes. Every intern is paid for at least 29 hours a week, for the full twelve weeks of the program.
Frequently asked questions
Money
Eligibility
Who can apply?
Applicants to the BLAC internship program should: be at least 18 years of age by the start of the summer program; have current authorization to work in the United States (position not eligible for sponsorship); and be fully available for the 12 weeks of the summer program, and able to commit 29 hours each week during standard business hours (though accommodations will be made for students finishing their spring semester during the first weeks of the program).
Do I need to be a student to apply?
No. No student status or college degree is needed to apply to the program or become an intern. Career shifters are welcome.
Do you offer internship placement outside of the United States?
Unfortunately, not at this time.
Do I need to live near a host agency?
More than likely. Applicants for the BLAC internship program are paired with host agencies in their geographic area for consideration. While we do offer placement opportunities at remote-first agencies, which are open to a wider pool of applicants, those placement opportunities are very limited and average about 2-4 per year. BLAC will share confirmed host cities alongside application instructions on our website as participating agencies are confirmed; they can change each year.
Applying
Do I need a portfolio to apply?
No. A portfolio is not a required part of our application process. The application form will allow applicants to share optional links to work samples, and those applying for creative positions (art direction/design and copywriting) are encouraged (though not required) to do so.
What does the application involve?
A short application form that collects information about you, plus a two-minute video in response to our prompt. The video prompt will be shared when the application cycle opens, and we may change the prompt from year to year. The video can be simple and shot on your camera phone or as elaborate and produced as you’d like – we’re reviewing them to learn more about you and your perspective, we’re not judging your video editing skills.
How are interns matched with agencies?
Intern applicants are paired with participating host agencies for consideration based on location, desired internship discipline, and skill set. Applications are reviewed by host agencies, and they contact the candidates they’d like to meet for a live video group interview. Final selections for interns are made and communicated by each host agency.
The program
What roles can I intern in?
BLAC offers internships in the following disciplines: account management, art/design, copywriting, production, and strategy. Each applicant to our program will select a first and second choice discipline, and share why they are a good match for both. Selected interns will be placed in the department of their discipline while in agency, be given appropriate assignments to build relevant skills and experience, and receive discipline-specific training via BLAC during the internship program.
Is the internship remote or in person?
Most agency placements are in person, for at least 29 hours per week. BLAC-hosted segments of the program (inclusive of intro week, community meetings, and the career fair) are virtual. Learn more under “The Program” page of this site.
What happens after the internship ends?
The summer closes with our Career Fair, where interns interview with participating agencies and brands. After that, you’re an alum, which means the network, community, and support stay with you. BLAC offers regular virtual gatherings, continued mentorship and career navigational support, and scholarship opportunities for program alumni.
Support
How can my agency get involved?
Host an intern, join the Career Fair, sponsor a program, or donate. Reach out to us via the “Contact” page, and we look forward to connecting.
How can my brand get involved?
Participate in our pitch project, tap into the creative talent of our alumni network, sponsor the program, or develop an initiative unique to your needs. Reach out to us via the “Contact” page and we’ll get a conversation scheduled soon.
How can I donate?
Every level of support helps. Consider making a donation to impact the lives of countless emerging professionals and help shape creative industries for the better.