What is CSHIP?
Are you a college student interested in public or community health? Do you want to build your résumé, gain paid hands-on experience, and make a meaningful impact in Vermont communities? The CSHIP (College Student Health Internship Program) summer program is a part-time, non-clinical experiential learning opportunity that is designed for Vermont students enrolled in a post-secondary degree or certificate program who are interested in pursuing a career in a health-related field.
Why CSHIP?
Southern Vermont AHEC’s CSHIP Program offers college students a paid, 100 hour summer internship that is project based, mostly remote, and non-clinical, taking place during June, July, and August.
Interns work with healthcare organizations and community agencies across rural Vermont, gaining hands-on experience while contributing to projects that improve rural health.
Since 2013, SVTAHEC has placed over 100 students in health-related internships. CSHIP is an ideal opportunity for students exploring healthcare or public health careers who want flexible, meaningful summer experience.
For more information about the application process and program details, contact Alysia Straw, Director of Programs, at astraw@svtahec.org or 802.885.2126 x106.
Application Process
To apply for an internship in Vermont, complete
Applications open on January 26, 2026 and close March 30, 2026.
Questions should be addressed to Alysia Straw, Director of Programs at astraw@svtahec.org.
CSHIP Core Curriculum
Student interns complete a 100 hour project that includes field work and supplemental instruction focused on the roots of health inequity.
While the student interns work on a project for an organization integral to their own field of study, they also learn career-readiness skills and foundational knowledge about rural health care.
More Info
For more information Click here
For information on the Association of American Medical Schools (AAMC) 15 Core Competencies for medical school applicants Click here
More Info
Where are these internships?
We partner with regional and statewide organizations. Sites are located in rural communities throughout Vermont.
How do I apply?
The online application for summer internships is available in January 26, 2026. Applications will close March 30, 2026. For questions or more information, email Alysia Straw, Director of Program, astraw@svtahec.org
Do I get paid?
Yes. Interns receive $1500 for the internship.
How long is an internship?
Internships are a combination of approximately 20 hours of online learning and 80 hours of project field work over 8 to 10 weeks in June, July, and August.
Can I work alongside a doctor in a hospital?
Not likely. These are non-clinical internships, and most are with nonprofit, public health, or social service agencies, involved in health care in some way. Rarely can we place a student in a hospital setting. If you have a certification such as an EMT or LNA, please indicate this on your appliction, as it may allow for more patient contact.
What is meant by a “project”?
Interns have helped with social media, promotional materials, patient satisfaction surveys, researched and prepared community health information, gathered and analyzed health-related data, assisted elderly and hospice organizations, worked with LGBTQ youth and prevention organizations, and other important work that assists community health and healthcare facilities.
Do you provide housing, and would I need a car?
Many projects can be completed remotely. If the internship is on-site, we do not provide housing and you are responsible for getting to and from your placement. Some projects might also require in-state travel.
What kinds of organizations or placements am I likely to get?
Interns have worked with a variety of nonprofit health, wellness, and community organizations around the state. Placements have included The Prevention Coalition, Brain Injury Alliance of Vermont, Free & Referral Clinics, Councils on Aging, Rutland Regional Medical Center, Mt. Ascutney Hospital, Public Health Council of the Upper Valley, H.O.P.E., Vermont Department of Health and several other valuable AHEC partners.
We are always looking for new possibilities in oral, medical, public and behavioral health!
Other Questions? Contact Alysia Straw , astraw@svthahec.org
Here is a sample of our community partners.
Thanks to all for making CSHIP a success!
Quick Links
Contact SVTAHEC
368 River Street, Suite 145
Springfield, VT 05156
p. 802-885-2126
f. 802-885-2128
e. info@svtahec.org
Open Monday - Friday, 8AM - 4PM.
Media Contacts & Inquiries
Media members may contact Marketing & Communications Manager, Peg Bolgioni during normal business hours.
802.885.2126 x10
pbolgioni@svtahec.org
A 501(c)(3) organization serving Addison, Bennington, Rutland, Windham, and Windsor counties in partnership with The University of Vermont Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine.