Art Education Intern

Public Service Fellows Program Overview

The Public Service Fellows (PSF) Program began in 2014 with support from the State Employees Credit Union (SECU) Foundation. Since its inception, over 200 students have completed internships in 85 organizations in 25 North Carolina counties. The goal of the program is to foster workplace experiences for undergraduates at ECU while helping rural communities build professional capacity to address public issues.

Up to 20 students will be chosen each year for SECU Public Fellow Internships (PFI). PFI participants will take part in 20 hours of leadership and professional development workshops in addition to the 330-hour PFI internship experience. Each student selected for the program will receive $17.50 per hour.

Students will be expected to attend a MANDATORY orientation on May 15, 2026, attend workshops scheduled throughout their internship, and at the end of their internship, and present at a State Employees Credit Union Advisory Board meeting either in summer or fall.

Position Summary

The intern will teach weeklong arts and crafts workshops for students ages 6–11, from 9am-12pm, leading fun, skill-based projects across a variety of media. As the primary classroom instructor, you’ll foster a welcoming, safe, and engaging environment where young artists can explore creativity, develop problem-solving skills, and experience the joy of making. When not teaching, intern should prep (making samples, pull materials, etc.) for the next class. The intern will plan and teach art and craft projects for 7 week long sessions starting June 8, Supervise and engage campers to ensure a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment, Prepare materials and classroom set up prior to each session, Encourage creativity, experimentation, and collaboration among students, Communicate effectively with staff, parents, and students, Maintain organization, cleanliness, and safety in the classroom, Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required.

Internship Location & Supervisor Information

Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality, hands-on craft education in an inspiring and supportive environment. Located in Columbia, North Carolina, along the banks of the Scuppernong River, we offer workshops, residencies, youth programs, and community events across disciplines including metals, ceramics, wood, textiles, and mixed media. Our mission is to foster creativity, craftsmanship, and lifelong learning by connecting people of all backgrounds with skilled instructors and practicing artists. Students who join us will be part of a collaborative, inclusive community that values artistic growth and the transformative power of craft. Students will work at Pocosin School of Fine Craft, 202 Main Street, Columbia NC. Housing in a private room with a shared bathroom and a meal plan are provided at no charge. Interns will work with Gretchen Schermerhorn, Executive Director.

Desired Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

Prior experience teaching or working with youth in a classroom, camp, or arts program setting (as lead instructor, assistant, student teacher, or volunteer). Skills and Attributes: passion for art craft, and creative education, enjoy working with children in a hands-on environment, strong communication and interpersonal skills, professional, reliable, and team-oriented, excellent organization and classroom management, flexibility, patience,
and enthusiasm, problem-solving skills to adapt lessons as needed and the ability to accept feedback and work collaboratively.

Start & End Dates

May 15, 2026, through August 14, 2026.

Majors Targeted

Art, Art Education, Education

Application Process

Applicants must complete a PFI application and submit a resume to be considered. Applications are available at:

Download

All students selected for the PFI program must have undergraduate status and meet the following eligibility requirements by the internship start date:

• North Carolina resident
• Good academic standing
• Completion of at least 60 semester credit hours (classified as upcoming Junior or Senior)
• graduating prior to the internship end date

East Carolina University is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer and as such encourages applications from qualified women and minorities.

Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) should contact the Department for Disability Support Services at 252.737.1016 (voice/TTY).

Federal law requires proper documentation of identity and employability at the time of employment.