About the role
UCLA Recreation Summer Internship Program
THE 2026 PROGRAM IS CLOSED.
Details about the 2027 Program will be available in December.
This year's internship committee is excited to bring recreation students from various universities and with their own unique experiences. We encourage you to take a chance on yourself and apply. Remember, "you miss 100% of the shots you don't take." -Wayne Gretzky
-UCLA Recreation Internship Committee
UCLA Recreation offers multiple summer internship opportunities geared towards applicants interested in entering into the field of collegiate recreation and related fields. Selected interns will gain firsthand experience in a comprehensive recreation program at one of the most dynamic universities in the country. General responsibilities include, but are not limited to, program development, administrative operations, and special projects for both the department and in a specific functional area.
The goal of our summer internship program is to foster the development of emerging professionals by immersing them in diverse and fast-paced recreation programming. The interns will live together in university housing for a duration of 8 weeks and will gain professional experience in a variety of areas within UCLA Recreation.
2026 Internship Dates: *June 15 - August 7
*May 31 early start date for some internship positions (Youth & Family Programs and Aquatics)
2027 Internship Dates: TBD
Required Qualifications:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- First Aid/CPR Certifications (Required by the first day of employment)
- Submit to a criminal background check.
- Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree or pursuing a graduate degree.
- Experience working in a recreation department and/or related field.
- Possess effective interpersonal skills and a strong desire to learn
- Willingness to work variable and extended hours.
- Legally allowed to work in the United States.
Each functional area may require additional certifications and/or specific skills.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Currently working in recreation and/or related fields, and actively pursuing a career within that field.
Contact Us
Please email summerinternship@recreation.ucla.edu with any questions.
Frequently Asked Question
Is this internship only for seniors and graduate students?
No! The positions are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. We are looking for enthusiastic students with experience in the specific position they are applying to, regardless of what year they are currently enrolled in.
I work in a specific unit, can I only apply for that unit-specific internship position?
We encourage you to rank your position interests based on your own unique experiences. Whether that is from recreation, school, personal, professional, or extracurricular choose the positions that will help you expand your skill set.
Will I get to work across the department with different units?
Yes! Each position is unique but we work to introduce you to all parts of UCLA Recreation. The program also works to introduce you to other areas of campus including Student Affairs.
Competitive Sports
2 Positions Available
The Competitive Sports Intern will assist with the summer Competitive Sports programming, including the completion of several projects including the management of Club Sports youth camps, esports projects and activities, and martial arts program support. Interns will also assist in the planning for the 2025-2026 academic year.