Internship Program FAQ
How do I apply?
First read the descriptions of internships that are currently available, and choose your top three (3). Then, submit a cover letter, resume and two (2) writing samples via any of the following options (please do not submit more than once):
Online: See link in descriptions below.
Fax: (206) 281-7799
Email:
NOTE: In your cover letter, be sure to indicate your top three (3) internship choices, in order of preference.
What kind of writing sample should I submit?
When we evaluate your writing samples, we ask ourselves if we would be comfortable allowing you to represent our company in correspondence with our clients, vendors and the public. We look for well-organized ideas, a clear writing style, and the absence of spelling errors and typos. These qualities can be demonstrated in many types of written pieces (articles, school essays, fiction, etc.), and we welcome candidates to demonstrate their range and creativity. That said, pieces of an intensely personal or controversial nature can raise red flags. It’s always smart to pick a sample relevant to the internship you are applying for.
I cannot work on July 4 and/or Labor Day Weekend. Am I still eligible for an internship?
If there are internships listed for Teatro ZinZanni (Casting, Wardrobe, Carpentry & Facilities), you can apply for those. Internships at Teatro ZinZanni are offered year-round, and there are no blackout days. However, for Festivals internships, these days are required.
When does an internship start? How long does it last?
Start and end dates vary by internship, and you can find those dates listed with the internship description. Internships are generally 4 to 6 months long. Start and end dates can be flexible by a few days, within reason.
I would like to apply for an internship I don’t see listed here. What should I do?
If an internship is not listed here, it has been filled or we are not currently offering it.
How many spots are available for each internship?
In most cases, one. Occasionally two. The number of positions available is listed in the title of the internship.
Is there an age requirement / limit?
No. Younger applicants should be mature and confident enough to handle a variety of situations, including supervisory, customer service, independent problem solving and decision-making. Older applicants should be realistic about what they can gain from an internship, and have the energy, freedom and flexibility to devote the time and effort required. All applicants should be ready to handle the intense physical and mental demands of event work. Most interns are recently graduated college or university students, or in progress toward a post-secondary degree.
Can high school students apply for an internship?
Yes. See “Is there an age requirement / limit?”
Do I have to be a student to qualify for an internship?
No.
Can I get school / college credit for my internship?
Many schools allow college credit for internships. Interns must make arrangements on their own to receive college credit with their school.
I can relocate to Seattle for an internship, but not for an interview. Should I apply?
We strongly prefer to meet you in person for an interview before offering placement in an internship. Selection for internships is competitive, and a great candidate we have met in person is more appealing than a great candidate on paper, who we have only talked to on the phone. It’s not impossible though.
I am applying from outside of the United States, and I do not have a visa. Is an internship possible for me?
It is possible, however we cannot offer any assistance in the preparation of your visa application. Keep in mind that we strongly prefer to interview candidates before considering them for placement, and placement is not guaranteed with an interview.
I am an exchange student, and English is not my first language. Is an internship possible for me?
Yes. However, due to the fast-paced and customer service-oriented nature of much of what we do, you must be able to clearly communicate in English over the phone, in person and in writing without major difficulty.
What will my work schedule be?
Work schedules are determined between interns and their supervisors on an individual basis. Our business hours are 8am-5pm Monday through Friday, and interns’ schedules will be within those hours. There will occasionally be evening and weekend hours required on top of the regular weekly schedule. Internships involved with Bumbershoot generally require an increased time commitment, up to 35 hours per week and more, in the months of July and August to prepare for that event.
How much does it pay?
There is no compensation for these interships; however, we do provide a small stipend to cover food and transportation costs of $100 per month for part-time internships (up to 20 hours per week), $200 per month for full time internships (35+ hours per week). Part-time or full-time is indicated in the description for each internship, and is not negotiable.
Will I be hired after my internship?
Interns are not guaranteed a job after their internship. However, an internship is a great way to make an impression and meet decision-makers in the industry.