New York Women in Film & Television is the preeminent entertainment industry association for women in New York City.  Dedicated to helping women reach the highest levels of achievement in film, television and new media, and promoting equity for women in these industries, NYWIFT produces over fifty innovative programs and special events each year.  NYWIFT's 1700 members are part of a network of forty international women in film organizations, representing more than 10,000 members.

The New York Women in Film & Television Intern/Mentor Program provides a rare opportunity for people with film/communications degrees and those with entry-level knowledge of the film industry to interact with professionals in the industry and to gain experience under the guidance of NYWIFT members who agree to serve as their mentors.

The NYWIFT internship is unpaid. In return for successful completion of the internship, along with being assigned to a mentor, interns receive a complimentary one-year Next Wave membership in NYWIFT. Also, for 2 months after completion, interns may attend all NYWIFT programs and film screenings at no cost. Such programs provide an invaluable opportunity to meet our members and to begin to make contacts within the industry.

The Intern Experience

Interns agree to work in the NYWIFT office for a total of 45 days. The NYWIFT office is open 10 AM - 6 PM, Monday through Friday (closed on Fridays during the summer). The work schedule can be personalized somewhat to accommodate the needs of the intern but a minimum of one full day per week is required. The internship is usually completed over a 4 - 6 month period, with interns working 1- 4 days per week.

Interns provide clerical support to the organization’s general operations, programs and member activities.  Interns also provide assistance at NYWIFT events.  As opportunities become available, additional intern responsibilities may include work on other NYWIFT projects, as needed.  Time worked is applied toward their 45-day commitment.

Interns may attend all NYWIFT programs and film screenings during their internship and for two months after its completion.  Programs range from industry-related speakers and panel discussions, to screenplay readings and breakfasts with power players in the industry.  Interns are encouraged to attend events as a way to meet NYWIFT members and start making important professional contacts. 

Mentorship

At the end of the 45 days, interns complete a questionnaire.  Their responses, along with NYWIFT staff feedback, are used to help the Intern/Mentor Committee match the intern with a mentor who specializes in the intern’s area of interest.  Mentors are asked to meet 6 times in 6 months with the intern.  The first meeting must be in person, the others may be telephone meetings.

The Intern/Mentor program does not necessarily lead to employment.  However, many interns have gone on to impressive careers after their experience in the program.