Second Chance Program

The "Second Chance" Program offers graduating seniors and recent UMass Amherst alumni an opportunity to gain valuable work experience through co-op or internship assignments. To qualify, an applicant must be in the last semester of their degree program or have graduated from UMass Amherst within the preceding 6 months. Internship applicants must have a minimum 2.0 GPA while co-op applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA.

Career Services staff cooperate with the UMass Amherst Division of Continuing Education to focus on the applicants goals strengths and assets, and to assist the applicant in preparing a resume, identifying opportunities, and developing a strategy to apply for either internship or co-operative education placements.

Positions range from accounting firms, media and public relations, social service agencies, and many high tech companies. Internships may be completed during summer, spring or fall semesters; while co-op assignments may only be six months duration or during a fall or spring semester.

There is a fee of $300 to enroll in this program. This covers all administrative and counseling services which includes advising sessions, the application process, interview preparation, and follow-up services by professional staff. Successful participants in this program will receive three continuing education credits ( C.E.U.s ) awarded through the UMass Amherst Division of Continuing Education. Applicants who are not successful in finding a co-op or internship may receive a partial reimbursement of the enrollment fee.