The Mission Isla Vista internship program offers individuals or friend groups a highly relational opportunity to grow in their love for God, people, and ministry. These internships range from two to six weeks in length, allowing young adults to come to Isla Vista, live among our culture and immerse themselves in a Christ centered community. Unlike traditional internships, we do not offer a highly structured program or a jam packed schedule. We provide the unique advantage of cultivating an internship experience according to where people are at in their faith, and how to help them grow within and beyond that place. More than coming here for personal growth, you can expect to see the glory of God on display. We will set you up with ministry and serving opportunities, a mentor to meet with, and lots of hangs. Our desire is for you to come immerse yourself in our culture, cultivate a greater awareness of God in your daily life and build lasting relationships with our family.
Evangelism
We have over 20,000 college aged people living in Isla Vista, so you could say this place is an evangelist’s dream. Weekly activities include going on prayer walks, connecting with students on campus, something we like to call “treasure hunts,” where we ask God to highlight people or places, and always sharing God’s love wherever He leads (this is also known as prophetic evangelism). You will have the opportunity to build relationships with people in our community who are hungry to see others enter the Kingdom, as well as developing your own evangelistic heart. If this feels out of your comfort zone, that’s okay, you are not alone!
Prayer is foundational to our movement. Every Monday night we meet in a garage which has been converted into our house of prayer behind the Jesus Burgers home….
Prayer
Prophecy
Whether you have grown up in a prophetic community, or you are unsure what the word prophetic even means, we are dedicated to encouraging everyone to personally hear the voice of God. This internship is an opportunity for you to develop your ability to hear God on a regular basis, whether it be talking with Him about your own life or receiving a prophetic word for someone else. We have a monthly gathering known as “Prayer + Prophecy,” where our prayer team will pray in groups of 2-3, sharing God’s heart over couples or individuals.
While you participate in your internship, Isla Vista Church provides sleeping arrangements at one of our community spaces. Accommodations vary, so be ready to sleep at a busy community house, on a couch, tiny home, in an RV, or maybe an air mattress. You will have access to a fridge and kitchen area to cook all your meals, as well as restaurants and grocery stores within walking distance. You will be staying in the community, so plan to carpool and don’t stress about rides or needing a car. While we do often eat together as family and in homes, plan to purchase your own food. All interns have the opportunity to stay at the Jesus Burgers House for part of their time here. This house is a ministry home devoted to building community and loving the city of Isla Vista, and as we like to call it, the heartbeat of our mission.
My time as an intern with MIV was like water to my faith. God had put interning with MIV on my heart almost a year in advance, and when I finally arrived in IV it felt like fulfillment of His promises. I immediately experienced acceptance and care from the community, and felt like part of the family, despite being there only a few short days. I was caught off guard when I noticed that most of the community houses keep their doors wide open. I asked someone why they did that, and they responded that it is a continual invitation for anyone to come in. I thought to myself, “Dang, that’s wild.” They were motivated purely by love. Keeping their doors open is such a simple act, but through it I experienced the Father’s love in an indescribable way. Radical love is not only evident inside their homes, but in the way they operate within the community. Whether you’re visiting for a short time or on an extended trip, you’re invited to be known and invested in. I promise, you won’t leave the same way you came—and that is truly a gift. One encouragement to anyone who is interested in interning: come open handed and come happy to serve, and God will lead you to exactly what you’re looking for.
- Makenna, 2022 Canada
International Applicants and Calendar
All international visitors must obtain their own visa. We do not sponsor or assist with international travel visas.For more information, visit https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov
Our internship runs during the USCB academic school year and we begin accepting interns at the end of September. We do not accept interns during summer, winter holiday or spring break.
How much does it cost?
$150 per week covers your place to stay.
How old do I have to be?
We accept interns from age 18 to 29.
What if I’m into music and worship?
Awesome! If you are interested in coming here to focus on worship or music production, please contact the isla vista worship school.
Is food included?
You will need to bring or purchase your own food and supplies as needed. If there is something you are unable to fit in a suitcase, always feel free to ask about borrowing during your time here, such as a bike or skateboard.
How do I get there?
Those outside of driving distance fly into the Santa Barbara airport, and we will pick you up from there. If you fly into Los Angeles, there are buses and trains that will take you directly to Goleta or Santa Barbara station for someone to meet you. You will cover your own travel costs.
I have more questions!
For further questions email us at internship@missionislavista.com
When should I apply?
Regardless of time of year, please feel free to apply anytime.
What if I just want to visit your community?
Please do! We love having visitors, and you are more than welcome to join in on all of our weekly activities. Visitors must find their own accommodations.
