The Small Business Internship Program
(Students of The Small Business Internship Program 2023 Cohort. Photo Credit: Andre Huda .)
By Emmanuel Okoli From sales representatives to social workers, prior experience is becoming more and more essential for even entry-level positions in the workplace. Securing an internship is undeniably one of the most effective routes to gaining work experience. Fortunately, Lehman College offers students a valuable opportunity to attain experience through its Small Business Internship 4-week Program. Throughout the journey, participants acquired diverse skills led by seasoned lecturers who are experts in their respective fields. Students also earn seven (7) credits towards their degree, participate in 60 hours of professional development, and engage in 60 hours of paid internship work. They also receive a certificate upon completing the program! Dajihana, a student, described the program as “engaging and resourceful” and said, “The content and classes we’ve been exposed to have been super informative and insightful and the program has helped keep me accountable with my educational and career goals.” Andrea Huda, Director of SBIP, has headed the past three cohorts since it relaunched in the summer of 2022. The most significant measure of success has been the evident enthusiasm among students eager to join the program and the overwhelmingly positive reception it has received on campus. “It’s such a great program. You get credits, you get paid, [and] you get professional training that you’re gonna be able to put on your re- sume. Separate from your degree, having those three things alone to give you a little bit of [a] bump on your resume for when you graduate is excellent.” Within four weeks, the lecturers and students delved into various skills, including crafting engaging social media content to expand follower bases, effective product mar- keting strategies, website development, and more. These skills were honed under the guidance of experts and accom- plished professionals such as Petia Adur Razzaaq, Joanne Hvala, and Krista Hammond. 
(Student receiving her certificate. From left to right: Dr. Mackillop, Dean of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies; Jahianna Vasquez, student; Andrea Huda, Director of the Program; and Deirdre Constant Program Advisor. )
Petia is a digital marketing strategist with a track record working with esteemed brands like Dunkin Donuts and Fleet Banks. Joanne is a former senior director of communications at Columbia University and a former executive in communication roles at organizations such as General Electric. Krista is a leader in marketing teams for numerous international beauty companies. In a competitive job market, we know experience is key. Lehman's Small Business Internship Program (SBIP) is not just a program—it's a springboard into the real world of business, offering students invaluable skills, industry insights, and a certificate of accomplishment. With its diverse offerings and flexible structure, the SBIP is an opportunity not to be missed. The Small Business Internship is open to everyone with good academic standing, not just business majors. If the thought of owning a business and being your own boss ever crossed your mind, this might be the program for you! To sign up for an info session and learn more contact Huda at andrea.huda@lehman.cuny.edu. The next program begins on January 3rd, 2024.