Campuses@NOVA: NOVA Corps Interns—Driving Student Success and Professional Growth

Since its launch in fall 2022, the NOVA Corps internship program has made an undeniable impact. Designed as a paid, part-time internship program under the Division of Student Affairs, NOVA Corps has become a cornerstone of student retention and success while cultivating the professional skills of its participants.

With a mission to prepare students for future careers by developing essential skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork and problem-solving, the NOVA Corps program exemplifies the college’s commitment to its students both inside and outside the classroom. These interns provide critical peer-to-peer support across a variety of Student Affairs units.

A Vital Role in Student Support
Interns contribute to Enrollment Services, Advising/Counseling, the Information Desk, the Dean of Student Success offices, Food Pantries, Accommodations & Accessibility, Student Life and even the NOVA Foundation. Their duties range from helping students apply to the college and registering for classes to providing guidance on navigating tools like the Student Information System (SIS) and Canvas. They also assist with campus tours, develop flyers, assist with social media content and play a vital role in the planning and execution of campus events, ensuring these activities run smoothly and effectively.

“The NOVA Corps Interns have become invaluable to Student Services,” remarked a campus leader. “They are carefully selected, very well trained and always willing to help in any way they can. Beyond registration, they assist with campus tours, events and in greeter roles at the beginning of semesters—all with empathy and a genuine focus on service.”

Provosts across NOVA agree that the interns have made a remarkable difference. “Having NOVA Corps Interns on campus has enhanced our ability to serve students effectively. Their professionalism and dedication make us proud to have them as part of our team,” one provost shared.

Shaping Future Leaders
The NOVA Corps program stands out not only for the immediate impact it has on the college community but also for its long-term benefits to the interns. Through a structured hiring process, the program ensures participants are committed to their roles and are fully immersed in the experience. Candidates must meet several requirements, including active enrollment, a one-year commitment and the ability to work 20 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters. Once hired, Dr. Linda Barthelus, director of the College Information Center, provides comprehensive training that equips interns with the knowledge and confidence to succeed.

For many interns, the program is life-changing. As one former intern shared, “During this internship, I gained so much that calling this a rewarding experience is not enough, and to thank you for trusting me and allowing me to work with the best group of people I have ever met and do meaningful work is not enough. Coming to NOVA was a last-minute decision, but now I understand that it was the right path for me. In fact, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I feel like I belong here.”

Looking Ahead
The program’s rigorous selection process—culminating in 13 to 15 new hires each term out of 80-100 applicants—ensures NOVA Corps recruits high-caliber individuals ready to support the student body while growing as leaders. Many interns continue in the program beyond the initial one-year commitment, underscoring its value to their development.

Campus leaders are confident in the program’s success. “Their impact on retention, engagement and overall campus vibrancy is clear, and we’re thrilled to see how this program continues to evolve,” shared another campus administrator.

The NOVA Corps program not only bridges the gap between student services and those it serves but also equips its participants with the skills they need to succeed long after their time at NOVA. It’s a win-win that’s transforming lives and strengthening the college community.

Submitted by:
Dr. Annette Haggray, AL Campus Provost, MAHaggray@nvcc.edu