Extension Scholar Program

Browse available resources.
You have questions. We have answers!
Contact UD Extension staff.
Read our latest accomplishments!
Find out how YOU can get involved!
Hands-on experiential learning for UD undergrads!
Submit a sample today.
Analyses to help manage your land.
Chat with a DE Master Gardener.
Protect your family, friends and community.
Protect your flock.

Extension Scholar Program

"Because of my time [as an Extension Scholar], I discovered a passion and love for education and extension work. I hope to graduate with my Ph.D. this upcoming spring and pursue a career in teaching and Cooperative Extension."

- Alexis Omar

Video: Extension Scholars: A summer of experiential learning: youtube.com/watch?v=RuSzXJ9EEZE

What is an Extension Scholar?

Our Extension Scholars program offers UD students a unique, hands-on 10-week summer experiential learning environment under the guidance of extension agents or specialists.

During this summer internship, students will follow Cooperative Extension's service learning model, implemented through one of extension's four program areas: 4-H youth development, family and consumer sciences, lawn and garden, and agriculture and natural resources.

Any current undergraduate, in the summer following freshmen year and beyond, or graduate students at UD are eligible to participate and opportunities are available in New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties. 

While this program does provide a stipend for participants, interns will be expected to provide their own transportation, and mileage to and from work is at the intern’s expense.

 

Become a 2025 Extension Scholar

Applications for the Extension Scholar program usually open during winter session each year for summer employment. In the meantime, you can review the previous summer's program details and position descriptions below.

 

Summer 2025 Application Coming Soon

View 2024 Position Descriptions >


Engaging with the community is fulfilling work. It makes us better researchers and better teachers. And being able to share this passion with students so that they grow to be engaged with their communities as well… that’s a wonderful story for the University to tell.

- Michelle Rodgers associate dean of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and director of the University’s Cooperative Extension

Eligibility

Current undergraduate or graduate students at the University of Delaware.

 

Purpose

The Extension Scholars program is designed to follow the service-learning model whereby scholars will have an opportunity to become fully engaged in organizational service experiences that:

  • Are integrated into the academic curriculum
  • Meet the needs of a community
  • Provide structured time for reflection
  • Help to foster civic responsibility

 

Opportunities

Extension Scholars expand their knowledge and participate in the delivery of Extension programming. Scholars have the opportunity to develop leadership and interpersonal skills, to learn about careers in Extension, and to apply knowledge gained through university coursework. 

Summer scholar experiential learning may include designing and delivering educational programs; evaluating program impacts in the community; assisting with communications and digital media; working with volunteers; fostering partnerships; pursuing funding; and more! 

 

Locations

Cooperative Extension Offices:

  • New Castle County Extension, Newark DE
  • Kent County Extension, Dover, DE
  • Sussex County Extension, Georgetown, DE

 

Expectations

  • The Summer Scholar Program is a full-time 10-week session: June through August
  • The program commences on June with a required Orientation.
  • Scholars participate in the Service-Learning Symposium held the last week of the session which requires a poster or oral presentation
  • Scholars are required to provide their own transportation.

 

Application Process and Deadlines:

  1. Date TBA: Online applications due.
  2. February/March: Selection committee will conduct personal interviews.
  3. March: Awarded Scholars will be notified via email.

 

Stipend:

As of 2023, Summer Scholars receive a student stipend in the amount of $4,500.