Learning-Aligned Employment Program
The Learning-Aligned Employment Program (LAEP) is an initiative to increase the number of students that find quality, paid internships in their field of study. LAEP offers students paid internship positions that may relate to their major, career goals, or the exploration of career options. On-campus internships require for interns to conduct research* with a WLAC faculty or staff as part of the internship duties. Students may view and apply for these positions in College Central Network; this program will end by 2030-2031.
*Research is not limited to scientific research and can take place outside of an academic discipline.
Benefits of LAEP
The Learning-Aligned Employment Program:
- Provides financial compensation while gaining work experience in your field of study
- Builds your resume
- Expands your professional network and connections
- Refines your career goals
Impact on Financial Aid
LAEP is a form of financial aid and is included in your total financial aid package. LAEP wages may not exceed your unmet need for the academic year.
Unlike other types of financial aid, LAEP earnings are not applied directly to your tuition and fees. Students who participate in LAEP internships receive the funds in a paycheck as they earn them, based on hours worked, just like a normal job.
Contact the Financial Aid Office if you have questions.
Student Eligibility for LAEP
In order to be eligible for LAEP, you must be:
- Completed at least 6 units of the program of study or previous work experience in the field
- Apply only at Home Campus (*check your student portal to verify your home campus)
- Half-time enrollment (six units for spring or fall; three units for summer)
- Be classified as a CA Resident
- Demonstrated maintenance of satisfactory academic progress (SAP)
- Have demonstrated an unmet financial need
- Be eligible to work in the US
- From an underrepresented background
- Prior participation in the federal work-study program is preferred but not required.
You will be considered from an underrepresented background if you are at least one of the following:
- First-generation college student
- Current or former foster youth
- Student experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless
- A student with an Expected Family Contribution in the Pell Grant-eligible range (either FAFSA or CADAA)
- Student with a disability
- Displaced worker
- Student with dependent children
- Formerly incarcerated student
- Undocumented students / students meeting the requirements of AB540 (eligible to work in the US)
- Student who is a veteran
How to Check Eligibility
Students who are eligible to participate in LAEP will be sent an email; If you are unsure of your eligibility, then check your student email or contact us at @email.
Next Steps for Interested Students
- Submit the Student Interest Form if you're interested in obtaining a paid internship through LAEP.
- Create a College Central Network account (how to access)
- Log in to College Central Network and click on “Search-My School’s Jobs” and enter “LAEP” and click on “View jobs by Keywords” and apply for the position.
- If you are selected for an LAEP internship, then you will be required to complete an LAEP Student Participation Agreement, which will be emailed to you.
- As an LAEP intern, you will be required to submit a monthly Reflect and Report form at this link: https://forms.office.com/r/nqmfPFvapt.
Office Hours
In-Person:
Mondays to Thursdays: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
In-Person Walk-In Hours for Quick Assistance:
Mondays to Thursdays: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Closed
Saturdays and Sundays
