How to Apply

Hiring for CCA CONNECTS positions takes place at the beginning of each semester. View current open positions at the CCA job board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Applying to CCA CONNECTS

Why should I apply to this program?
The CONNECTS program is a great opportunity for students to apply their creative skills in a real-world community context. If you are looking to form relationships outside of CCA while contributing significantly to a local organization and the communities that they serve, then this is the program for you.

Am I eligible to apply?
Full-time CCA students, both undergraduate and graduate, from any academic program are eligible to apply. First semester freshmen are not eligible although occasional exceptions are made on a case by case basis.

Do I need a Federal work-study award to apply?
No, you do not need a Federal work-study award.

Does CCA CONNECTS pay?
Yes, students get paid $13 per hour.

When do you accept applications?
CCA CONNECTS applications are accepted at the beginning of each semester, although the majority of the positions are available in the Fall semester. Hiring is done on a rolling basis so you are encouraged to get your application in early.

How can I find out what CCA CONNECTS positions are available?
All available CONNECTS positions are posted 1-2 weeks prior to the start of each semester on the CCA job board.

How can I apply to participate in the program?
To apply to the CCA CONNECTS program, please email one application packet, comprised of your resume, cover letter, and CCA CONNECTS application form to connects@cca.edu. Carefully review all CONNECTS job postings before applying and specifiy in your cover letter which position(s) you are interested in. The CCA CONNECTS application form will be available via the CCA job board.

If I apply, am I guaranteed a CCA CONNECTS position?
The CCA CONNECTS program is competitive and due to limited available positions, not all applicants will be selected. If you are not selected, you are encouraged to re-apply the following semester.

How will I be matched with a community partner organization?
The center reviews each CONNECTS application to learn about the student’s interests, skills, and experience. Based on the strength of the application and the needs of each partner organization, the center does their best to facilitate successful matches.

Can I create my own CCA CONNECTS position?
All community organizations interested in the program and working with a CCA CONNECTS must apply to the Center for Art and Public Life during the summer to participate in the CCA CONNECTS program. Students are not able to set up their own CCA CONNECTS positions but if they have suggestions of organizations that would be interested in applying to participate in the CCA CONNECTS program, they are welcome to have that organization contact us directly at connects@cca.edu.

Can I re-apply to CONNECTS if I have already participated in the program?
Yes, previous CONNECTS applicants can apply to the program over consecutive years, however they can only work at the same site for the duration of one academic year.

Can I work in a CCA CONNECTS position and another work-study position?
Yes, students can work multiple work-study jobs as long as they do not exceed the work limit of 8 hours in one day and 20 total work hours per week.

How many hours a week can I work at my partner site?
CONNECTS students can work up to ten hours per week.

If I’m hired to work with CCA CONNECTS

In addition to working weekly at my site, what is expected of me?
The CCA CONNECTS program is a comprehensive externship program in which students are required to participate in approximately 5 events each academic year in addition to working at their community partner site. These events serve to supplement and support the student’s work at his/her site and take the form of professional development workshops, discussion sessions, and networking events. All required events are paid work time.

Am I paid for my commute time to the partner site?
Students are not paid for their transportation or commute time to and from their community partner site. Students are responsible for coordinating their own transportation.

Do I get credit for this externship?
Students do not receive credit for this externship. If you are interested in participating in an internship for credit, please contact your academic program directly.

How long can I work with CCA CONNECTS
CCA CONNECTS students are asked to make a one year commitment to the program but can opt out of continuing in the spring semester if necessary. Students may participate in the CCA CONNECTS program for multiple consecutive years, however they can only work at the same site for the duration of one academic year.

Can I continue to work over the summer?
CCA CONNECTS positions follow the CCA academic calendar and do not include summer work hours. Occasionally, month-long extensions are made allowing Students to work through May.

Information About Community Partner Sites

Where are community organization partner sites located?
CCA CONNECTS partner sites are located all over the Bay Area including San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Richmond, and Emeryville.

What type of organizations does the CCA CONNECTS program partner with?
The center partners with a wide variety of types of organizations through the CCA CONNECTS program. Examples include public schools, after-school programs, museums, non-profit organizations, and collectives.

What do you look for when selecting community partner organizations?
The center looks for sites that have a socially-engaged mission aiming to serve specific communities in the Bay Area. These sites must exemplify their ability to provide a student with a creative and challenging role, direct mentorship, and leadership opportunities.