"Preparing to Lead" internships

ptl-ad-image.jpgEmployers participating in the "Preparing to Lead" summer internship program gain the skills and talents of Princeton engineering students who are interested in both engineering and corporate leadership. Under this unique program, employers designate a "Leader" -- a senior executive in the company -- who commits to spending time (about 30 minutes per week) in a two-way discussion with the student. Discussions can range from the meaning of leadership to the company's context in its industry to career guidance and advice.

The student will be expected to work in a capacity as defined by the company, which can range from engineering work to data collection, reporting and analysis or any other activities as defined by the company.

How does an employer participate?

  • Designate a senior executive in the company to serve as "Leader"
  • Spend approximately 30 minutes per week with the student in a one-on-one mentoring role
  • Provide a brief job description for the internship
  • Provide financial compensation to the student, i.e., this must be a paid internship
  • Assist students in identifying housing for the summer (referrals, etc.)
  • Provide relocation assistance at the start & end of the internship (depending on the location of the internship)
  • Provide prompt replies to the Center and the student during the candidate selection and interview processes
  • Accept a visit by the program coordinator during the internship period
  • Upon request, provide constructive feedback on the internship

What are the deadlines for participation?

To participate, please contact Stephanie Landers, Program Assistant, at slanders@princeton.edu, or by phone at 609-258-3979.

What kinds of experiences have students had?

You can read a story about student experiences here.

What companies participate in the program?

Summer 2009 participants included :

  • The Kauffman Foundation, Leader: John Courtin, VP of Special Projects
  • IBM Corporation, Leader: Florence D. Hudson '80, Energy & Environment Strategy & Execution Executive in IBM Corporate Strategy
  • Vorbeck Materials, Leader: John Lettow '95, President

Summer 2008 participants included:

  • Return Path, Leader: Jack Sinclair, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer
  • Sealed Air, Leader: David Kelsey '73, Sr. VP and Chief Financial Officer
  • Vorbeck Materials, Leader: John Lettow '95, President

Summer 2007 participants, the program's "Founding Leaders" included:

  • IBM Corporation, Leader: Florence D. Hudson '80, VP of Marketing & Strategy, System z
  • Return Path, Leader: Jack Sinclair, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer
  • Sealed Air, Leader: David Kelsey '73, Sr. VP and Chief Financial Officer
  • WildPackets, Leader: Mahboud Zabetian '88, Chairman