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Student Volunteer Program

The U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) offers unpaid training opportunities to students in high school and college. These opportunities provide work experience related to your academic program. The program allows you to explore career options as well as develop your personal and professional skills. As a student volunteer, you will be exposed to the Federal work environment and you will learn about the missions and responsibilities of this agency.

What Does the Program Offer?

Student Volunteer Service can enrich your future. Some of the benefits include: 

Career exploration early in your academic studies; 
Exposure to new and emerging occupations and professions;
Academic credit for the work you perform. (This is determined by your academic institution.);
Work experience that will enhance your ability to obtain paying jobs in the future. 

Are You Eligible?

You are eligible to participate as a Student Volunteer if you are enrolled, at least halftime, in:

An accredited high school or trade school,
A technical or vocational school, 
A junior or community college, 
A four-year college or university, or 
Any other accredited educational institution.

What Types of Positions are Available for Student Volunteers?

Student volunteers are involved in professional projects and work activities related to their academic studies. These activities run the gamut from developing computer skills to policy or research-oriented projects, depending upon the employing office and the student's academic pursuits. Student volunteer assignments will differ, but all promise to be stimulating and rewarding.

The CPSC requires that student volunteers develop a work agreement in collaboration with their school and CPSC. The agreement should outline the responsibilities of each partner. It may also identify the type(s) of assignment(s) and the working conditions. 

How Long and When Would You Work?

Most student volunteers will work for CPSC for three to four months. Your work may be performed during the school year and/or during summer or school vacation periods. The nature of your volunteer assignment, as well as your weekly work schedule, should be made a part of your work agreement

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