PROGRAM MISSION

The Arts Internship Program provides students who face structural barriers with paid work experiences, mentorship opportunities, and professional development in the arts that empower self-identity and help build valuable skills for the future.

2026-2028 COHORT APPLICATIONS CLOSED

Finalists and waitlist candidates have been selected and all applicants have been notified via email of the selection results. If you applied and have not received an email from us (check your spam folder), you can contact us at laetaaip@exploringthearts.org

To apply to the Arts Internship Program you must:

Be in 11th grade and enrolled at an ETA Partner School
Be eligible to work in the US
Be in good academic standing at your school (passing your classes)
Be enthusiastic about the arts and personal growth
Commit to all program activities from November 2027 to May 2029, including the summer session in June and July 2028

FAMILY INFO PACKET
Students and parents can learn more about the program by reading our Info Packet (English Version) + (Spanish Version)

2027-2029 ARTS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM INTEREST FORM

If you will be in 11th grade in Fall 2027, fill out the form below to receive email updates about the application and applicant support resources
THIS IS NOT THE APPLICATION.

PREPARATION FOR COLLEGE AND CREATIVE CAREERS

The Arts Internship Program is a 2-year program that places students from ETA Partner Schools in paid internships at creative organizations and helps them prepare for life after high school. The program is designed to help students build the skills, training, and experience needed to achieve their goals.

The Arts Internship Program empowers youth of Los Angeles and Pasadena to pursue their dreams in the arts industry and beyond. Students are connected with mentors in various industries to gain insight about the creative economy and build their confidence.

Our target students are passionate about the arts and looking for the opportunity to grow, regardless of whether they plan to pursue a career in the arts or another industry. The program requires students to work roughly 12 hours per month during the school year (October - December and January - May) and 48 hours in the summer (June - July). Applicants should have space in their schedule to make the internship program a priority.

Field Trips to Arts and Cultural Institutions!

College & Career Prep Workshops!

Career Panels with Industry Experts!

Networking with Other Students!

PROGRAMMING

Eligible students may apply in the fall of each year to enter the program. The application process includes submission of an application form which asks for basic contact information, your availability for work, and your most recent report card. You will also answer a series of questions, either written or in the form of a video (you also have the option to share artwork or your creative practice). Once accepted, Arts Internship Program students will explore and participate in the following areas:

Career Exploration

Real-World Experience at a Paid Internship
Career Panels
Field Trips
Networking

College Readiness

College Tours
Goal Development
Workshops exploring creative majors
Workshops to learn about financial aid and transitioning to college

Personal And Creative Development

Adobe CC Membership for 2 Years + workshops
Resume writing workshops
Guest Artist Workshops
Peer Mentorship Training Workshops
And more!

During the spring of their senior year, interns complete a “Culminating Project” designed with the support of their mentors. The project can be an opportunity to showcase their skills, build their portfolio, or make a substantive contribution to their host organization. You can read about previous intern projects on our dedicated websites: 2023-2025 Cohort Culminating Projects Website and 2024-2026 Cohort Culminating Projects Website.

ARTS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM STUDENT VOICES