Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative:
For Scholars
Your Roots. Your Future. Discover where they connect.
Your future is full of possibilities, and some of them may be closer to home than you think. Through the Golden LEAF Rural Internship Initiative (RII), eligible Golden LEAF Scholars can put their interests into action, gain paid, career-connected experience, and discover professional opportunities in rural North Carolina.
Whether you’re taking your first steps into the professional world or building on experiences you’ve already gained, RII gives you the chance to develop your skills, make connections, and see what’s possible for your future.
Choose the Experience That Fits
Immersive Track
200–400 hours
Go deeper with hands-on projects, take on greater responsibility, and build stronger professional connections.
Ideal for scholars ready to gain more extensive experience in a field of interest.
Exploratory Track
Under 200 hours
Explore an industry, build workplace confidence, and discover career possibilities in rural North Carolina.
Ideal for first-year scholars or students beginning to explore potential careers.
Both tracks offer paid, in-person experiences. Internship schedules are developed in coordination with participating host sites.
Who Can Participate?
RII is open to Golden LEAF Scholars who:
- Are current recipients of the Golden LEAF Colleges and Universities Scholarship.
- Will be at least 18 years old when their internship begins.
- Will not graduate before September 1 of the internship year.
- Want experience connected to their academic interests and career goals.
- Can complete an in-person internship at a qualifying rural North Carolina site.
How it works:
1. Tell Us You’re Interested
Complete your personalized RII Interest Form.
2. Explore and Connect with Internship Sites
Browse the directory or identify another qualifying rural organization.
3. Complete Your Application
Submit your transcript, short statements, and site information.
4. Get Ready for Summer
If selected, complete onboarding and orientation.
Eligible Golden LEAF Scholars receive program invitations and personalized access links by email. If you believe you’re eligible but haven’t received an invitation, contact the RII team at [email protected].
Key Dates — Summer 2027
Mark your calendar! Here are the important dates to help you plan your RII experience.
October 27, 2026
Scholar Interest Form Opens
December 1, 2026
RII Application Opens
January 20, 2027
Early Application Deadline
February 19, 2027
Regular Application Deadline
March 2027
Selection Notifications
May–August 2027
Summer Internship Window
Eligible Golden LEAF Scholars will receive important program updates and application information by email.
Helpful Resources for Scholars
Find the information and tools you need to explore RII and prepare for your internship experience.
Internship Site Directory
Explore potential internship opportunities with rural North Carolina organizations.
RII Fit Quiz
See whether RII could be a good fit for your goals and circumstances.
Take the Fit Quiz
Scholar Information Flyer
Download a quick overview of RII, including experience tracks and participation steps.
Additional RII Resources
Find program tools, materials, and helpful links in one place.
Exploring Careers in Healthcare and Community Services?
Interested in healthcare, behavioral health, or community-based services? RII offers opportunities to explore these fields through meaningful, hands-on experiences at participating rural organizations.
Behavioral, Community, and Healthcare Management (BCHM) internships focus on nonclinical responsibilities that support the work of healthcare and community-serving organizations. Opportunities may involve administrative projects, program operations, community outreach, or other approved activities.
BCHM interns may not provide direct patient care or make healthcare recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about participating in RII? Find answers to some of the most common questions below.
Do I need to have a declared major to participate?
No. RII provides opportunities to explore career interests as well as build experience in an established field of
study. Your internship should connect to your academic interests or career goals.
Do I need previous internship or work experience?
No. Previous internship experience is not required. The Exploratory Track can be especially helpful for scholars
who are beginning to develop their professional skills.
Am I responsible for finding my own internship site?
Yes. Scholars identify potential internship sites by exploring the RII Site Directory or identifying another
qualifying organization. The RII team can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
Can I complete an internship with an organization that isn't in the Site Directory?
Yes! Scholars can identify and invite qualifying rural North Carolina organizations to participate. New
organizations must complete the required site review and approval process.
Can I participate in RII more than once?
Returning participation is possible, subject to eligibility, program requirements, and selection. Hourly wages
vary by participation year.
Does completing the Interest Form guarantee an internship?
No. The Interest Form is the first step in expressing interest. Scholars must complete the application process
and be selected before participating.
Who should I contact if I have questions or need assistance?
Contact the RII team at [email protected] or 252-216-2575. The team can help with questions about
program requirements, site identification, and next steps.
Questions? We’re Here to Help.
Have questions about RII or need assistance exploring internship opportunities? Our team is happy to help.