I was a full-time student and worked full-time while earning my undergraduate degree. Not only did I have to work for free during this time to earn credit towards my internship, but I also had to pay tuition for the privilege of doing the internship. This is an unfair burden on students who are already struggling with high tuition costs and living expenses.

Unpaid internships are often a requirement for many undergraduate and graduate programs, yet students receive no financial compensation or relief from associated educational fees. This practice disproportionately affects low-income students who cannot afford to work without pay while also paying tuition.

Educational institutions should recognize unpaid internship hours as valid academic credit without charging additional fees such as classroom fees or tuition. By doing so, they would alleviate some of the financial stress on students and make higher education more accessible.

Please sign this petition to urge educational institutions to accept unpaid internship hours as credit without additional charges.