An initiative of CEO Leadership Alliance Orange County (CLAOC)

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College Career Experience

Our College Career Experiences give college students the opportunity to gain real-world, project-based experience with innovative companies headquartered in Orange County and across the globe. Through hands-on work, professional coaching, and meaningful industry connections, you’ll build the skills and confidence needed to take your next step.

Open to college students residing in Orange County for the summer, this paid micro-internship program runs June – August with schedules that vary by host company. Please check the company’s description for qualifications.

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Current Opportunities
  • Gain Meaningful Work Experience: Apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real company projects that create real impact.
  • Skill Building: Participate in professional development focused on communication, workplace skills, career clarity, and industry insights to help grow your confidence.
  • Direct Access to Industry Professionals: Connect with leaders and early-career professionals at top OC/global companies, ask questions, and expand your network.
  • Career Confidence: Clarify your goals, strengthen your resume, and gain experience that prepares you for competitive internships and full-time roles. 

Real Results from Past Participants

  • 87% clarified career goals
  • 94% want to pursue internships or job opportunities with their host company
  • 94% feel better prepared to enter the workforce
  • 96% feel confident building professional relationships
  • 94% would recommend the experience to their peers

We offer career experiences in the following industries:

  • Healthcare & MedTech
  • Architecture, Engineering, & Design
  • Business & Finance
  • IT & Marketing

For details on the companies hosting experiences for summer 2026, please visit our Opportunity Board.

Our College Career Experiences take place between June and August 2026. Exact dates, schedules, and locations vary by host company and can be found on our Opportunity Board.

To be eligible, you’ll need to:

  • Reside in Orange County over the summer
  • Meet the requirements of the experience you are applying for
  • Be available to meet the schedule required by your experience
  • Have a genuine interest in learning from CLAOC and a member company

Application Opens: Jan 5 – Mar 1
Deadline: Dependent on the experience (see Opportunity Board for details)

Here’s how to apply:

  1. Apply Online: Complete the application (insert link), upload your resume, and add a one-page cover letter.
  2. Customize Your Materials: Use the Opportunity Board to tailor your resume and cover letter to specific host company expectations.
  3. Make Your Answers Count: Review questions carefully and use your response to help us understand your goals, strengths, and interests.


Interviews: April – May by invitation only.

Decision Emails: April 1 – May 30 (varies by experience)

We strongly encourage you to regularly check your inbox for emails from CLAOC as deadlines to respond are firm. 

Our application is designed to get to know you beyond what’s on your resume. That’s why we’ve included a section of short answer questions—take your time and respond thoughtfully, as these answers are part of the screening process.

Here are the short answer questions you’ll need to tackle:

  • Why do you want to be considered for this experience? Please express why you believe you are a good fit for this experience. 
  • What do you hope to gain from this program?
  • How have your background, culture, or life experiences shaped your goals, and what unique skills do you bring to this internship that aren’t typically highlighted in a resume?

Make your cover letter stand out with these quick tips:

  • Personalize It: Address your cover letter to someone specific and reference why you want to work with the company. Remember to update this for each company you choose! Check the Opportunity Board for names. 
  • Share Your Story: Briefly introduce who you are and why you’re applying. Mention relevant classes, programs, special courses, skills, strengths, and career goals. Explain what you hope to gain from the experience.
  • Keep It Focused: Cover why the Career Exploration Experience is the perfect fit for you in a paragraph or less!

Your resume is a snapshot of your skills, strengths, and goals. Here’s a quick breakdown of sections to include:

  1. Contact Info: Name, phone, email, LinkedIn, or portfolio link.
  2. Qualifications: Highlight 3-4 top skills or experiences.
  3. Education: Year, and any relevant coursework or projects.
  4. Technical Skills: Include any software, programming, or other relevant tools.
  5. Certifications: If you have them, list them!
  6. Extracurricular Activities: Include any leadership roles, volunteer work, or unique accomplishments.
  7. Awards and Honors: Showcase your achievements.


Pro Tip: Keep your resume clear and focused to make a lasting impression. Visit your on- campus career center for more tips!

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Kickstart Your Future with Us!

Apply now to begin an unforgettable summer of growth and exploration. Visit the Opportunity Board to start your application journey!

Apply now
Visit the Opportunity Board