Intern at a CA Startup
Ship real product to real users at a 5C-founded startup — during the semester, over breaks, or full-time.
Get real experience
Startup interns gain valuable experience that's highly applicable for consulting/tech recruiting, or for any other path you plan to pursue.
Get real experience
Own features end-to-end, talk to users, and ship work that goes live the same week. The kind of story you can actually tell in an interview.
Network with ambitious people
Work alongside 5C founders backed by YC, a16z, Afore, 1517, EF, and Z Fellows. The intros compound long after the role ends.
Earn money
All roles are paid.
Where you could intern
Roles for the coming cycle aren't posted yet. Here are the portfolio startups you'd be matched with.
Common questions
Do I need to be a CS major?
No. Startups hire for engineering, design, growth, ops, research, and community. If you're strong at something and want to ship it, we'll find you a fit.
Do I have to be a 5C student?
Yes. The program is exclusive to students at Pomona, CMC, Scripps, Harvey Mudd, and Pitzer. Alumni within one year of graduation are considered case-by-case.
Is this full-time only?
No. Roles range from ~10 hrs/week during the semester to full-time over the summer. You tell us your availability on the app.
How much do interns get paid?
Rates are set by the individual startup, typically $20–$40/hr depending on role and stage. Some early-stage teams offer equity in addition to cash.
What if I want to found instead of intern?
Head over to the founder track — same community, different door.
Ready to build with a startup?
Applications open each cycle. In the meantime, get to know the startups you could be building at.
Browse the portfolio