Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is an internship?
A: An internship is an opportunity for practical work experience while a student is enrolled in college or university courses. An internship provides you with hands-on learning outside of the classroom. Benefits of working at the Supreme Council can include an improved knowledge of the nonprofit sector, interaction with professionals, college credit, learning how to work in a professional environment, and greater satisfaction in your first post-graduate job.

Q: What is the purpose of an internship?
A: An internship will enhance your professional preparation through direct involvement in our company. It will provide a unique learning environment where you can apply knowledge and skills acquired in the classroom setting.

Q: What is the difference between a part-time job and an internship?
A: The main difference is that an internship is set in a learning environment and sometimes the work is done for academic credit. Internship positions are reserved for students and can be paid or unpaid. While a part-time job can be in the student’s field of study, it’s mainly done for pay. If the internship is in related to your major, consider applying to your academic department to receive credit.

Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Undergraduates and graduate students currently enrolled in a community college, college or university.

Q: How many hours per week will I work?
A: Interns work according to their own course schedules. While most only work about 10 hours, interns can work as many as 30 hours per week, depending on course load and class schedules.

Ali Rizwan stands in the stacks of the Supreme Council Library, the first major library open to the public in Washington, D.C. Ali is a senior at George Washington University majoring in Business. Photo: Elizabeth A. Williams The Scottish Rite Journal

Q: How long is the internship?
A: The internship follows the semester system. Most interns will work a minimum of 15 weeks, or one semester. The exception to this is the summer session, where interns will work between 10 and 15 weeks. Some interns elect to remain for an additional semester. There is enough flexibility to provide opportunities for students on quarter systems to participate on other academic schedules.

Q: If a student interns during the fall and also wants to intern for the spring or summer, is that possible?
A: Yes, as long as they are currently enrolled in school.

Q: Are internships paid?
A: Yes. While it is important to choose internship opportunities based on the experience they will provide, we offer a competitive rate for interns. For an unpaid internship make sure you apply for academic credit. Let the experience, credits earned, and networking opportunities be your compensation.

Q: How do I apply for an internship position?
A: Submit a resume and cover letter as a form of application to the Director of Internships.

Q: How do I register for academic credit for my internship?
A: This is normally arranged through each student’s school. Each school has different rules and regulations on how to receive credit. If an applicant’s college or university offers credit for internships, the Supreme Council will work with the school to match academic requirements. Necessary forms should be submitted upon acceptance to the Supreme Council intern program.

Q: How many credits can I earn when doing an internship?
A: You can earn between 1 and 12 internship credits during an internship. This can mean doing several internships for 1-3 credits, or doing a semester or year-long internship for 6-12 credits. Typically, if the internship is going to be done during the fall or spring while taking other courses, students ask for the equivalent of a 3-hour credit class.

Katie and Maria welcome guests to the Scottish Rite gift shop. Katie Barrios is a senior at George Washington University, and is a Business major from Louisiana. Maria Kalinina is a sophomore at GWU and is originally from Maryland. Photo: Elizabeth A. Williams, The Scottish Rite Journal

Q: Is there an application deadline?
A: No. We accept applications throughout the year as positions become available.

Q: Are there events held at locations other than the House of the Temple that I will attend?
A: Occasionally, the Supreme Council has special events held at local Washington D.C. hotels and venues. Dates for these events will be advertised well in advance if interns will be participating.

Q: How much clerical work will be done at this job?
A: Very little. Interns are asked to serve as museum tour guides and hosts/hostesses for our members, guests and visitors, therefore it is important that they are free to perform this duty.

Q: Can I reapply if unsuccessful?
A: Yes. Applicants are kept on file for one year. If you would like your file reactivated, please send a written (or email) request and updated resume.

Q: Do you provide housing?
A: The Supreme Council does not provide housing for interns but will provide information about possible housing opportunities and living in the Washington D.C. metro area.