FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

WHY WAS THE LATINX44 SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM CREATED?

Many of us got our start because of unpaid or underfunded internships and know both how valuable these experiences can be, and how challenging it is, especially for underrepresented minority students, to accept unpaid work. According to research gathered by a group called Pay Our Interns, college students who have internship experience are 51.7% more likely to receive a job offer by graduation than their peers. However, with internships in major cities costing on average $6,000, for many Latinx and first-generation students, unpaid work is a barrier to entry and equity in the workplace. Research shows that Hispanic American students have the lowest rate of internship participation, with just 53.3% of students completing internships as compared with 68.2% of their white peers. We are hoping this scholarship program can help a new generation of Latinx leaders take advantage of these career-making opportunities.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT TO APPLY FOR THIS SCHOLARSHIP?

There is no age limit to apply. The only criteria is that you must be a a current college or graduate student or recent graduate (2023 or 2024) to apply — that includes community college, technical school, and online degree programs.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY INTERNSHIP QUALIFIES FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP?

The goal of the scholarship is to fund public service internships for summer 2024. If your internship involves policy, community engagement, community service, advocacy, or global relations, then it should qualify! One note is this scholarship is only available for individuals who have already secured an internship through other avenues. We are unable at this time to provide internships for applicants. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you are still unsure whether your internship qualifies, as we would be happy to discuss this further with you.

HOW MUCH MONEY IS AWARD TO EACH SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT?

Each Latinx44 scholar will receive a $1,500 stipend for their summer internship.

HOW AND WHEN WILL I RECEIVE THE SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS?

Each recipient will receive notice about their scholarship award in early-mid June and the Latinx44 Scholarship Program will host a virtual event to kick off the official start to your internships.

IS THIS SCHOLARSHIP A ONE-TIME OFFER OR WILL IT BE OFFERED EVERY YEAR TO DIFFERENT APPLICANTS?

The future of the scholarships will be dependent on donations, but we are pleased to announce we are currently accepting applications for summer 2024. Applications are due May 24, 2024.

ARE PRESIDENT AND MRS. OBAMA INVOLVED WITH THIS SCHOLARSHIP?

No, this is a grassroots effort led by two Latinx former Obama Administration officials who created a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to support the next generation of Latinx leaders but the founders were inspired by the example and leadership of President and Mrs. Obama on expanding opportunities for students. The first few scholarships were funded entirely by Latinx former Obama Administration officials and then we were able to expand the program through the generosity of many others.

STILL HAVE QUESTIONS? Email us at info@latinx44scholarship.com.