Internship Opportunity
Student Internships at the Westchester County Probation Department
Probation Officers perform a variety of duties related to the investigation and supervision of individuals involved in the criminal and juvenile justice systems. College students interested in learning about work in the field of criminal justice can apply to take part in our internship program. The program provides interns with a glimpse of the particulars of the criminal justice system, including community based supervision, through first-hand courtroom and case management experience. Student interns shadow Probation Officers during probation reporting interviews, observe pre-sentence interviews, accompany Officers to court proceedings, and also assist with special projects as needed. Interns also learn about the different programs offered to probationers such as diversion programs, workforce development initiatives, and educational and cognitive behavioral programs.
Intern Requirements and Qualifications
- Must be actively enrolled in an accredited university/college program.
- Must be in good standing with the university/college.
- The student must agree to a current criminal record check, which must be void of any criminal history, and sign a non-disclosure agreement
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, and Excel) are preferred.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Self-directed and able to work independently.
- Energetic and eager to tackle new projects and ideas.
- Must be able to complete hours during the Probation Department’s business hours, 9:00 am-5:00 pm. Mondays and Fridays are typically not good days for students to intern at the Probation Department.
Interested candidates must submit an application, college transcripts, resume with a cover letter, and one professional/academic letter of recommendation to Ana Cordero by email at . Internships should be applied for at least eight weeks in advance of the semester the student is interested in applying. Applicants will be interviewed. Please note that internships with the Department of Probation are unpaid; however, a letter can be provided for college credit as required by the university/college
Intern FAQs
Q. What is an Internship?
A. An internship is an on-site educational experience that is either directly related to your major field of study or your career interest.
Q. What are the minimum time commitments?
A. Undergraduate Internships require a minimum commitment of 6 hrs / week for 3 months
Q. What are the steps necessary to become an intern?
Complete an application
Attend a panel interview
Pass a background investigation
Attend an orientation
Q. When do I need to apply?
A. At least 2 months prior to when you want your internship to begin.
Q. What are the benefits of an internship?
A. Gain valuable work experience before you graduate; Develop new skills and refine others; Apply knowledge gained from coursework to real life situations; Reality-test your career options; Meet and work with professionals in the field; Experience new work environments.
Q. Do I have to be enrolled in school to complete an internship?
A. Yes.
Q. Is it paid?
A. No.
Q. Can I get academic credit for my internship?
A. Please check with your school for requirements.