Name: Ryan

Year: Junior

Major: Psychology, Legal Studies

Minor: Philosophy

CFS Program: Legal Field Studies

Nearly halfway through this year’s spring quarter, I still did not have any idea what opportunities my summer might hold. I was, more specifically, anxious and worried that I would not find anything more meaningful than the typical summer jobs I had held in the past. I had applied to several internships, but received no responses after desperately sending out my information to any position for which I qualified.
I had heard of Chicago Field Studies through a couple of friends who were actually in the program at the time (and still are), but I never really considered it. After being accepted, I immediately wondered why I hadn’t been looking to the program all along. There are obvious benefits. Having your resume backed, so that potential employers inherently trust your character gives you a leg up on competition. Furthermore, the advisers help focus your applications, shore up your resume and other documents, improve your interviewing skills, and (most importantly, for me) provide a network of support (comprised of both students and advisers) to turn to with any questions.
As I am now a few weeks into my internship, I can speak more to the advantages one might not consider if the job search itself is not an issue. Generally, I really value the effort CFS puts forth in ensuring that the internship experience is enriching for everyone. They do not maintain connections with companies that will send students out for coffee, or tedious work with no learning experience. My internship has been uniquely interesting so far. Finally, the class (which some might not be excited about at first) has been provocative and interesting for the entirety of every session, and we always discuss topics of real intellectual value. I am, with all honesty, loving my experience so far.