How long is the internship?
Interns commit to one year, three hours per week, in addition to mandatory events including the semester orientation, workshops, mid-semester evaluations, and socials. We highly encourage interns to reapply and become Senior Interns or even an Executive Board member.

​

What is the difference between an Inside the Living Room (ILR) intern and East Bay Sanctuary Covenant (EBSC) volunteer?

The main differences between an ILR intern and an EBSC volunteer is time commitment, types of tasks and training. ILR is a student-run organization that pairs students for an entire (academic) year with staff at the EBSC. Being an intern requires a consistent weekly schedule and direct communication with an EBSC staff member. In past semesters, interns have developed mentor-like relationships with EBSC staff. Throughout the year ILR interns also attend trainings, workshops and socials. ILR interns focus on specific tasks related to their interests such as asylum or u-visas (learn more here) while EBSC volunteers have general responsibilities such as translating documents and working on outreach programs. If you are interested in learning more about being a volunteer at the EBSC, click here.

​

What are the requirements to apply?

• Be a current UC Berkeley undergraduate student

• Be ready to commit for one year (no studying abroad or seniors with one semester left)

• Commit to three to four hours a week between 10am-4:30pm MTWThF 

• Have a passion for helping others and/or interest in immigration law and legal services

• Candidates fluent in Spanish, Mam (Mayan), or French highly encouraged to apply

​

Is any major welcome?
Yes, we accept all majors. 

​

What are the interns' commitments?

• Intern a minimum of three hours at the East Bay Sanctuary Covenant (EBSC) (*Note: students will not be required to serve during  final exams, thanksgiving break, winter break, or spring break).

• Complete in a timely manner all internship contracts, timesheets, program and student director evaluations, and other necessary paperwork.

• Volunteer for the semester fundraising event

• Be present for trainings, orientation, and professional development workshops/series.

• Maintain cooperative and respectful relationships with EBSC constituents and ILR Executive Board Members and peers

• Represent ILR and EBSC at all corresponding events with a professional and respectful demeanor

• Maintain and respond to ILR Cohort Leaders check-ins and keep them apprised of the Interns personal growth, development and needs.

​

Do you have to speak Spanish?
No, Spanish is not a requirement. However, we highly encourage bilingual Spanish speakers to apply since a majority of the clients that the Sanctuary serves are Spanish speakers.

We welcome all students who are passionate about helping others, interested in expanding their skills, and working in a fast environment to apply. This internship opportunity it is yours to make it as meaningful as you like, the student directors will provide you with assistance, guidance, and resources as needed. Please keep in mind the types of experiences you want to get out of the internship and be sure to portray them in your application.

 

What kind of help does the organization (ILR) provide?
ILR provides sustained service to the EBSC, so at they can offer free or at low-cost immigration services to Bay Area residents.  ILR interns tasks consist of: Completing political, LGBT, or domestic violence asylum, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Unacompanied Alien Child (UAC), U-Visas, Residency, and Community Development and Education (CDE). Interns with an interest in teaching will facilitate ESL and citizenship exam classes. Interns are also expected, but not required to translate for psychologists, lawyers, law students; accompany clients to court or meetings; assist clients at the front desk; conduct legal intakes (under attorney supervision); translate legal documents, and much more! 

 

Is this internship paid?
No, ILR is a student-run organization. However, you will certainly acquire professional skills that will make you more marketable when applying for jobs, scholarships, graduate school and/or law school.