Vandy in Hollywood

Vandy in Hollywood (ViH) is a prestigious opportunity for Vanderbilt University students to immerse themselves in the heart of the entertainment industry. ViH offers unparalleled access to top studios, agencies, distributors, and production companies in Hollywood.  

Hollywood

Students: Applications Now Open for Summer 2026!

Applications close on Monday, January 23rd.

Apply Now

Since its founding in 2004 by Richard Hull, BA ‘92 and Chad Gervich BA ‘96, ViH has grown in popularity—connecting students with valuable internships, industry insights, and networking opportunities. Each year, the program places approximately 30 students in renowned entertainment enterprises, fostering connections that often lead to full-time career opportunities. 

  • 30+

    Number of students in a typical summer cohort.

  • 15+

    Partnering companies offering virtual opportunities for students outside of the greater LA area.

  • 100+

    Alumni involved in the interviews, mentorship program, summer speaker series, and hands-on learning sessions

Richard Hull and Chad Gervich Among Six Honored with 2025 Vanderbilt Alumni Awards

Gervich and Hull are co-founders of the Vandy-in-Hollywood Internship Program

Read the Announcement

Student Guidebook and Timeline

Guidebook

Students: please read the guidebook AND the timeline below carefully.
It’s important that you follow all instructions exactly as outlined and pay close attention to the deadlines. Missing a step or a date could impact your eligibility or delay your participation.

View the Guidebook

  • 2026 Timeline

    Coming Soon

LA

Student FAQs

  • What does the application process look like?

    The application process for ViH begins in December. Candidates will be selected and interviewed by the Vandy in Hollywood Alumni Group. An information session precedes the internship period.

  • What kind of questions are on the application?

    Applicants will indicate their areas of interest and provide details about prior professional experiences. Family discussions about program costs are encouraged.

  • Who is eligible to apply?

    Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in good academic standing are eligible to apply.

     

  • What if I have no related experience?

    While prior experience is not mandatory, candidates should highlight transferable skills developed through campus involvement. ViH values dedication and a professional development mindset.

  • What happens after I apply?

    After applying, if selected, candidates undergo a 30-minute Zoom interview with an alum.

     

  • How do I find companies that might be the right fit for my interests?

    Research the entertainment industry, explore career paths, and consider the benefits of working with larger or smaller employers.

  • How can I prepare for my interviews?

    Be specific about your interests, avoid generic responses, and conduct thorough research on potential career paths within the entertainment industry.

     

  • Will all of the available positions be shared in February?

    No, opportunities continue to be shared until May.

     

  • Which companies have participated in the past?

    Notable companies include Agency for the Performing Arts, CBS-Paramount, Lionsgate, NBCUniversal, and many more.

  • Are these internships paid?

    In most cases, these positions are unpaid. Refer to job descriptions for payment details.

     

  • What is the timeline for these internships?

    Each employer has a different timeline, generally starting in mid-May to early August.

     

  • What about housing?

    Finding a roommate is recommended, and the Housing Ideas page provides information on housing in L.A.

     

  • Will I need a car?

    Having a car is highly recommended for convenience.

     

  • What does the group do once in L.A. for the summer?

    Participants can expect a weekly speaker series, invites to movie premieres, and various social events.

     

  • What if I still have questions not addressed here?

    For any unanswered questions, feel free to reach out to the program coordinators or alumni for guidance.

For Employers

A partnership between the Vanderbilt University Career Center and the Vanderbilt University alumni group Vandy in Hollywood (ViH) offers participating employers the opportunity to receive a exceptional, passionate, and hard-working candidates for summer internships. ViH not only helps students acquire the knowledge and experience necessary in the world of entertainment, but introduces Hollywood to the smartest, most creative, and most industrious students. Students will be available for a minimum of 8 weeks and work between 10 and 40 hours per week. For more information about Vanderbilt University visit the univeristy's quick facts page.

We encourage employers to review the information below. This will help answer many of the questions you may have, and ensure a positive experience for both you and the Vanderbilt interns!

  • Employer Guidelines & Responsibilities
    • Employers participating in ViHSIP are asked to provide an internship that complies with the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).**
    • Employers should identify supervisory personnel for the intern(s) in their organization who can serve as the ViHSIP company representative and draft a short internship description.
    • Should a student want to pursue academic credit for this internship, the supervisor must be willing to provide feedback and complete any required paperwork.
    • Employers should expect of student interns the same level of accountability and professionalism they have for other employees hired at will. This includes the threat of termination for lack of attendance or poor work performance.
    • Employers must be willing to provide an assessment of students’ performance at the conclusion of their internship.
  • The Recruitment Process
    • To post an opportunity, please email a blurb to Chad Gervich at chadgervich@gmail.com.
      • Blurbs should include a description of your internship, application requirements, and the supervisor’s contact info.
    • Student applications will be reviewed by Vandy in Hollywood alumni, with qualified candidates referred to each employer.
    • Employers may then contact the students of their choice directly to set up interviews and notify students if they have been selected for the internship. The employer may also choose to direct the student to company’s website to apply.
  • Dates to Keep in Mind
    • Last day of finals is Thursday, April 30, 2026 (so interns can begin soon after this).
    • Classes begin for Fall 2026 around Wednesday, August 19, 2026 (so interns must be back on campus by this date).

    Note: the 2026-2027 academic calendar has not yet been published 

  • Internships and FLSA Compliance Information

    Thank you for providing an internship to a Vanderbilt student. Vanderbilt University considers internships to be valuable educational opportunities for its students. We presume that students serving as interns will be given personal training, guidance, and regular evaluations. This will provide students with real-world experience in their fields of study, which will enhance their career preparation.

    Please be aware that the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division has developed a six-factor test for determining whether workers at “for profit” companies are to be considered “interns” or “employees” under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).

    Fact Sheet #71: Internship Programs Under The Fair Labor Standards Act
    http://www.dol.gov/whd/regs/compliance/whdfs71.htm

    This fact sheet will assist you in ascertaining if student positions should be considered unpaid/credit internships or paid employment. We hope that this will be helpful to you in assessing your compliance with the FLSA.

Contact

  • Erica M. Betz

    Erica M. Betz

    Director of External Partner Engagement