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University of Dreams

User Rating 5 Star Rating (6 Reviews) Write a review

From http://www.summerinternships.com/

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The Bottom Line

I do recommend that students take a look at the University of Dreams (UOD) Scholarship Programs and inquire about financial aid. In a down and competitive economy, UOD can offer expertise and valuable connections to students who are finding it difficult to get an internship.

UOD offers many excellent internship opportunities in a large variety of industries and locations but the high cost of participation may make the program impossible for a large number of students. Recommendation: Check out funding sources (scholarships and financial aid) or consider doing your own fundraising to help defray costs.

Pros

  • Excellent internship opportunities are available in many desirable locations.
  • Scholarships and financial aid programs are available for approved students.
  • UOD guarantees placement in an industry and location of applicant's choice.
  • Money back guarantee if desirable internship is not located.
  • Summer programs include housing, meal plan, activities, and seminars.

Cons

  • The cost of the program prohibits many students from participating.
  • Students may be delayed in learning valuable job search skills.

Description

  • University of Dreams began in 2000 with its first program offered to 73 students in the Silicon Valley in 2001.
  • In 2008 University of Dreams offered a total of twelve programs to over 1800 students.
  • Staff and program directors are available to students twenty-four hours a day.

Guide Review - University of Dreams

University of Dreams offers programs for college students during the spring, summer, and fall semesters in the following locations: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, Washington DC, Barcelona, London, Hong Kong, Sydney, and Costa Rica. UOD is an all inclusive internship placement program that includes housing, meal plan, 6 planned weekend activities to the best tourist attractions in the area, a weekly seminar series, and daily transportation to and from work during the summer months. Most fall and spring programs are not all-inclusive and a list of “what’s included” is posted on the website for each individual program. All Program dates are also listed on the University of Dreams website.

University of Dreams offers students internships in some of the most competitive companies and desirable cities. UOD guarantees student placement in an industry and location of choice. UOD takes away much of the planning and securing of an internship. During a down economy, this can be helpful and make the difference between finding a quality internship of choice or not finding one that meets an applicant's specific specifications.

In the real world, students must learn how to conduct a successful job search. UOD offers students resume assistance, interview prep, and secures all internships for applicants. Students who use this process as a learning experience can benefit from the assistance provided; but students who relinquish all responsibility in the preparation phase, may cheat themselves out of the valuable learning experience on what it takes to get a job.

User Reviews

 5 out of 5
Exceeded my Expectations, Member Lenny0353

At first I was a bit skeptical about the name (... University of Dreams???). I know what most of you are thinking (and my parents were the most skeptical of the name), but I definitely highly recommend this program to anyone looking to intern in a big city. University of Dreams really over-delivers in all areas--housing, friendly and approachable staff, fun weekend activities, and all of the details you don't think about. In my experience, I was a bit nervous to relocate to New York City (from the Midwest) for a summer; however, they made the transition easy and hassle free, as everything is set up when you get there, allowing you to focus on performing at your internship (Plus, you are instantly linked with hundreds of motivated students who are in the same spot you are in...) Overall the interview coaching and career preparation has equipped me with invaluable skills that helped me secure a job after the internship (which was my goal in investing in an internship). I spent $100,000 on a college education (still paying that off...) at a very prestigious univeristy, I worked multiple summer jobs, I had a solid resume interning in my hometown, but leaving my comfort zone while interning in New York, gave me the confidence and competetive advantage to negotiate a higher entry level salary (while my friends are still looking for a job).... My advice, find a way to do this program! I couldn't afford it when I applied, but it has been the most valuable investment of my life.

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