Refugee Development Center

Internships

Apply Today to be an Intern at the RDC for our spring 2026 Semester!

Our spring 2026 semester internships are in-person, operating from January 5th - May 14th, 2026

Click to view RDC’s Spring 2026 General Internship Application and Description

General RDC Internship Overview

RDC is looking for motivated interns who will participate in indirect and direct service responsibilities during RDC programming for spring 2026. This internship will offer a comprehensive experience in refugee post-resettlement programming at the Refugee Development Center. Interns are placed across RDC programs to provide support in the classroom, assist in program management administrative duties, and be a welcoming face at the center. This internship is in-person, and takes place out of RDC’s Newcomer Center in south Lansing. This is an unpaid internship. We are able to partner with academic institutions offering credit for internships. If applicable, please include any academic requirements in your application.

Hours

The RDC runs programs Monday-Thursday 9:00-7:30pm; interns must have availability within the timeframe that corresponds with the program they are applying for. Fridays are administrative days typically reserved for staff and team meetings, plus data work. Nights and weekends may be required depending on the internship. Hours vary depending on the internship and the individual. On average, 8-15 hours per week (option to add more hours to fulfill requirements are available).

General Qualifications:

  • English language fluency
  • Basic Computer Skills
  • Ability to work with adults from a diverse background
  • Demonstrated cross-cultural sensitivity
  • Speakers of Arabic, Dari, Farsi, French, Haitian Creole, Kinyarwanda, Pashto, and Swahili are encouraged to apply
  • Reliable form of transportation

To apply, fill out this google form and email your resume and cover letter to Savanna at shamed@rdclansing.org

RDC Internship Timeline

  • Application deadline is Wednesday, November 12th, 2025
  • Interviews will be conducted IN PERSON at RDC’s Newcomer Center, and will begin as early as November 10th, 2025
  • Interviews MUST be completed by December 3rd, 2025 (this deadline is NOT flexible)
  • Final decisions will be made and sent out by December 10th, 2025
  • Training: Training will occur during the first week of the internship (January 5-9, 2026). These training are IN-PERSON and required for all interns (flexibility provided on a case-by-case basis).
  • RDC’s Semester Start: RDC Programs begin on Monday, January 12th, 2026

Available Internship Positions:

  • Youth Development (K-12)
  • Childhood Development (Ages 0-5)
  • English Teaching (ESOL)
  • Welcoming and Intake
  • Transportation Support
  • Health, Housing Navigation