Policies and Procedures
Check this page regularly! Information will be updated throughout the semester.
To stay on track, use the self-check at the end of each phase.
Get to know the place you’ll be calling home for the next semester – including cultural customs, academic differences and daily life – in the “Los Angeles Guide”.
———– START PHASE ONE ———–
Housing Questionnaire: Form Due in the Applicant Portal
- Students live in program housing. It is critical that this form is filled out within two weeks. Failure to do so may jeopardize your housing assignment. Keep in mind that your placement will be made based on the information you provide on this questionnaire. Please note that we cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate your preferences. However, if you have any special requests of which the LA Program Manager should be aware, please be sure to note those on your form. Your housing assignment is made with your needs and preferences in mind. Remember that the more information you provide, the more likely you are to receive a compatible roommate. All students must fill out the following forms (even if you think you might want to live off campus):
- Please fill out the Housing Questionnaire and Emergency Contact Form on your Applicant Portal.
Internship Information and Questionnaire: Due in the Applicant Portal
The BU LA website has up to date information on the internship process.
In order to secure your internship in Los Angeles, you must first get your resume and cover letter in tip top shape. You will then submit them in order to schedule a pre-placement interview. Please read the full instructions below.
First, follow these steps:
1. Book an appointment with the BU Center for Career Development (or appropriate college career center such as the COM Career Services or Feld Career Center) to get started on the next draft of your resume and cover letter right away.
2. Fill out the Los Angeles Internship Questionnaire, on your Applicant Portal which will require you to upload your new resume and cover letter. You cannot schedule your pre-placement interview until you have completed this step!
3. Once you have completed step 2, you will be be contacted by the BU LA team for an internship meeting.
Next: BULA Interview
Your BULA experience will begin a few months prior to your arrival in LA, starting with an interview with one of the BULA program managers. This interview will be a conversation to assess your skills and to get a personal sense of your interests as they will match up with potential internship providers. You must bring hard or digital copies of your resume and cover letter to the interview for review and feedback. These meetings will take place in late Spring. The internship application process will approach quickly and you risk falling behind if you do not prepare your resume and cover letter prior to this interview.
You should book an appointment with your Career/Student Services office and have as many people as possible help you finesse your resume and cover letters prior to your interview with the BULA staff. The stronger you look on paper when you first meet with staff from BULA (no typos, a thoughtful approach in your cover letter, etc.), the more you will be able to talk about your actual goals and interests, and the greater chance the program manager will be able to help you secure an internship from your favorite companies.
Though the BULA staff provide internship leads and guidance in the internship process, they do not actually assign or place interns. This philosophy is driven by the fact that to succeed in the entertainment industry in L.A, you need to be a self-starter and go-getter. You MUST have a passion for “the business.” You will have to be pro-active in securing your own internships with the help of the BULA staff.
Then What? Securing an Internship
The BULA staff will share a job board with internship leads. Once the job board has been posted, it is your responsibility to check the board regularly and to apply for internships in a timely manner.
If you are applying to larger companies like NBCUniversal, Disney, CBS/Viacom, Warner Bros Discovery, Sony, Paramount, etc., these companies will have very early application deadlines. The BULA staff recommends that you apply to these internships very early. Sometimes these application deadlines will land before you receive your acceptance to the BULA program. If you are interested in applying to these larger companies, be proactive and do not wait for your BULA acceptance to apply!
More on Internships
In addition to the internship leads that the LA office provides, you should also utilize your BU, friends, and family network to find an internship. Confirm with BULA or your college’s career services department that your resume and cover letter are in competitive shape, then tell your professional and personal networks that you are seeking an internship in LA and ask if they know anyone. Most of the time you have to ask; don’t assume that people will think to share contacts with you. You never know when a friend of your parent’s cousin may be able to get you into a great internship. Be polite and specific about the type of internship you are seeking. If you do have your own internship contacts, please inform the BULA staff prior to making any commitments. Your internship site must be approved in order for you to get credit.
For many of you, your semester in LA will be your first taste of a business and city where you may want to work. Many of our students end up getting jobs in LA, either with the company for which they interned or as a result of contacts made during their semester with the program. Keep this in mind in your dealings with program staff, instructors, potential internship sites and your fellow classmates; be polite and professional at all times.
These internships combined are for 4 credits; it is a class and will be graded according to its syllabus. Remember, once you commit to an employer, you may not change internships (without penalty) unless you have the written permission of the BULA staff.
More details will be shared with students directly by the BULA staff.
Phase 1: Self Check
You should have completed:
- Confirmed your participation via your BU Study Abroad Application and filled out the accompanying online forms: In your Applicant Portal
- Submitted the Housing Questionnaire: due in your Applicant Portal
- Submitted the Internship Questionnaire: due in your Applicant Portal
———– END PHASE ONE ———–
———– START PHASE TWO ———–
Participate in Pre-Departure Meeting - DEC 7
PRE-DEPARTURE MEETING
A required pre-departure meeting for all students will take place in-person on Saturday, December 7th. Participation details, including the schedule and location, will be emailed by your Program Manager. This orientation will include important information to prepare you for your semester abroad and will also give you time and space to meet the other students studying in your program. Students who are not in the Boston area will be able to join via Zoom. A Zoom link will be shared via email prior to the pre-departure meeting to those who do not attend BU.
All students are required to participate. This meeting is intended to give you an overview of daily life, culture, health and safety, and academics on your program. You will also have the opportunity to ask your Program Manager any questions about what to expect as you prepare for your time abroad.
For those students that are unable to make the specified time, please email your Program Manager.
Please also note that this meeting is intended for participants of the program only. Due to FERPA (Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act), parents/guardians are not permitted to attend this session. We do, however, encourage you to share relevant information about the program with your parents, as we understand that they may be curious about what to expect from your experience abroad.
Flight & Arrival Information
Flight Information
Flight: Students are responsible for making their own travel arrangements. Once you have confirmed your independent travel, you must submit the independent flight form, which will be available on your BU Study Abroad Applicant Portal. All students must arrive by the start date.
Arrival Information
The Spring 2025 LA Internship Program dates are January 22 – May 4
Students must make their own transportation arrangements from LAX (the airport most students fly into) or another local airport to the BU LA center for check-in. Taxis or other car services (such as Uber and Lyft) are plentiful in LA.
The cab ride from LAX to BU LA should cost between $50 and $80. The SuperShuttle is slightly cheaper; to make a reservation, although not necessary, call 310-782-6600, or go to www.supershuttle.com. (Most cabs take credit cards.)
Check-in is mandatory for ALL BULA students (even off-campus), and all students must check in between the hours of Noon and 4PM on Wednesday, January 22. There you will meet the LA staff. Early and late arrivals are not permitted.
Should your arrival to Los Angeles be delayed due to unanticipated circumstances, please contact the LA office buinla@bu.edu.
Early check-in is not available for any students who arrive before the program’s official start date. Students who choose to arrive early should make housing/hotel arrangements on their own. The LA staff would be glad to suggest area hotel accommodations.
Please see the BULA website for more information. Spring check-in information will be available later this fall.
Course Selection
Students do not register for their courses until they arrive in Los Angeles. Please see the registration information from the Los Angeles page. Please note that the spring information has not been posted yet. More information about spring courses will be shared later this fall.
Although you already submitted an Advisor Support of Participation form as part of your application, you may adjust our course enrollment plans as you learn more about your program. Be sure to do so in consultation with your academic advisor (or your home institution’s study abroad office, if you are a visiting student), especially if your courses were pre-approved. You should determine, preferably prior to the start of the program, the precise degree requirements these courses will fulfill. It is your responsibility to research how the courses taken abroad apply towards your overall academic requirements and progress toward your degree. Non-BU students should be certain you understand how courses you take with BU Study Abroad will transfer to your home institution.
Please Note: Your courses will not appear on your BU transcript until after the program has ended and grades are reported.
Health Preparations & Medical Insurance
All students must continue on their domestic personal health insurance plan, as in Boston, or at their home university, while on the Los Angeles program. If you need to see a doctor, please refer to your health insurance website to ensure that you make an appointment with a doctor on your plan.
Personal Health Preparations:
Study away can be both mentally and physically challenging, so it is important for you to prepare as much as possible now for your health and safety during your time in Los Angeles. You should consider the following:
- If you have not been feeling well, make an appointment with your doctor for a checkup.
- If you anticipate needing any dental, optical, or other procedures, plan to have them completed before departure.
- If you are experiencing any emotional, eating, or substance abuse issues, seek professional counsel and consider deferring your participation in an BU Study Abroad program, if necessary.
- If you have had difficulties coping with change, stress or anxiety in the past (whether or not it was professionally diagnosed), or are hoping that time spent away will help you solve a problem facing you at home, or on campus, you should talk to a medical professional before studying in Los Angeles.
Request Academic Accommodations & Additional Support
If you have a mental health, emotional, learning, or physical disability that would require reasonable accommodations in order to complete the requirements of the program, you must obtain approval from the BU Disability and Access Services office (DAS), even if you've worked with their office previously. To initiate the approval request process, contact DAS at access@bu.edu or by phone at 617-353-3658. Please note that certain accommodations that you receive on your home campus may not be available at your program site, so the earlier that you are in contact with their office for advising, the better. The process for arranging accommodations may take several weeks. Please note that we are unable to accommodate emotional support animals in our international programs.
If you are currently consulting with a mental health professional, you must seek their counsel about the advisability of your participation in a study abroad program, especially as related to your adjustment to new cultural, academic, and housing environments and the availability of therapeutic or medical support while you are away from your home campus. If you have questions about the support available at your program destination, please contact your Program Manager.
Phase 2: Self Check
You should have completed:
(From Phase 1)
- Confirmed your participation via your BU Study Abroad Application and filled out the accompanying online forms: In your Applicant Portal
- Submitted the Housing Questionnaire: due in your Applicant Portal
- Submitted the Internship Questionnaire: due in your Applicant Portal
(From Phase 2)
- Attended your Pre-Departure Meeting: DEC 7
- Made travel arrangements to Los Angeles
- Made any necessary doctors appointments
- Contacted BU Disability Services to plan for academic accommodations and other support services (if necessary)
———– END PHASE TWO ———–
———– START PHASE THREE ———–
Banking
It’s essential that you call your bank and credit card companies to let them know you’ll be studying in Los Angeles. You’ll need to tell them that you will be in LA for the spring and the dates you’ll be away. If you don’t let them know, they may freeze your accounts, assuming your card has been used fraudulently. When you call your bank, you should ask them about the fees you may incur when using your debit/credit cards or see if they have a network or partner bank where the fees are waived.
Communication With Home
Students are very busy during their semester in Los Angeles. You will be working full days Monday through Thursday (and maybe Friday) and going to classes in the evening. You may not be able to communicate with your friends and family as you did before. Communication etiquette in the workplace will be discussed during orientation in LA. In meantime, here are some ideas to discuss with your family before you leave for your semester away.
- Make a plan BEFORE you leave home to manage your loved ones’ expectations
- Zoom/Facetime
- Email, messaging, and apps (WhatsApp)
Work Permission for International Students
International students who are already sponsored by Boston University under the F-1 Non-immigrant visa will need to gain work permission through the International Student and Scholar Office (ISSO) at Boston University. Students qualify for Curricular Practical Training through their internship course on Los Angeles Internship Program. During the academic year, students are limited to working 20 hours per week.
International students should work with the LA staff and the ISSO to complete the required paperwork in order to receive Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Students cannot begin to work before their CPT has been approved.
The Los Angeles program cannot issue any initial immigration documents for this program. International students must already have an I-20 from Boston University in order to attend the program.
Please contact your International Student Advisor at the International Students and Scholars Office with any questions.
Withdrawals
Have You Changed Your Mind?
If you are considering withdrawing from your Study Abroad program, please thoroughly review the Boston University Study Abroad Policy on Refunds. Please keep in mind that at any time after your admission to the program there may be non-recoverable costs associated with withdrawing from the program. Examples of non-recoverable costs for which you may be financially responsible may include, but are not limited to, charges related to housing, flights, academics, internships, or program-related activities.
It is important to note that the program starts on January 22 and is more than 12 weeks long. The last day to notify our office in writing of your withdrawal prior to being responsible for a portion of the program fee is January 14.
Phase 3: Self Check
Have you completed everything in Phases 1, 2 and 3? Here is a self-check to make sure you’re on the right track. Make sure you’re keeping track of any upcoming deadlines and budgeting enough time to complete them on-time. If you missed a deadline, be sure to check in with you Program Manager and complete that task right away.
You should have completed:
(From Phase 1)
- Confirmed your participation via your BU Study Abroad Application and filled out the accompanying online forms: In your Applicant Portal
- Submitted the Housing Questionnaire: due in your Applicant Portal
- Submitted the Internship Questionnaire: due in your Applicant Portal
(From Phase 2)
- Attended your Pre-Departure Meeting: DEC 7
- Made travel arrangements to Los Angeles
- Made any necessary doctors appointments
- Contacted BU Disability Services to plan for academic accommodations and other support services (if necessary)
(From Phase 3)
- Settled your Boston University Student Account
- Called your bank and credit card companies to let them know you’ll be studying in Los Angeles. Asked about any banking reciprocity agreements they may have, as well as any fees you may incur.
- Made a reasonable communication plan with your family and friends
- Reviewed your packing list and purchased any essentials
- Read your “Los Angeles Guide”
———– END PHASE THREE ———–
———– START CONTACT ———–
Program Contacts
As you prepare for and embark on your study abroad experience, you will be in contact with various staff members from BU Study Abroad, both in Boston and at our sites. To avoid missing important information, please add “@bu.edu” to your address book. Please keep all emails in a folder for your reference as you prepare for your semester abroad. Here are the names and email addresses of some people who will be in touch with you this semester, and/or whom you may want to contact with questions.
In Boston:
- Megan DeBolt, Program Manager – Megan is your main contact regarding any pre-departure questions. If you are not sure who to contact, please contact Megan.
In Los Angeles:
General inbox (buinla@bu.edu) You can use this email for any changes in your internship or housing forms or general questions about life on site in Los Angeles.
- Charisse McGhee-Lazarou, Director, Los Angeles Programs
- Erika Ljungdahl, Assistant Director, Student Services, Los Angeles
- Carrie Topiel, Program Manager – Internships, Los Angeles
- Grace DeVuono, Program Manager – Internships, Los Angeles
———– END CONTACT ———–
———– START CALENDAR ———–
The Spring 2025 Los Angeles Internship Program dates are: January 22 – May 4
Any updates to the calendar can be found on the BULA website. Here is a link to the website.
Neither late arrivals nor early departures are permitted. We urge students to not make any weekend or mid-semester break travel plans until they arrive on site and receive the finalized course and program schedule. During the semester, students must fulfill strict attendance requirements and will be very busy with classes, program activities, and assignments. If family and friends plan to visit, please schedule trips to take place before the start of on-site orientation, during a scheduled program break, or after the semester ends. The first and last weeks of the program are critical to students’ success and require your full attention. By timing visits to coincide with scheduled program breaks, you can meet attendance requirements and take full advantage of your study abroad experience.
———– END CALENDAR ———–
———– START GUIDE ———–
1. Get To Know Los Angeles
History, Geography and Politics
A career in Hollywood sounds exciting, but is it for me? We hope a semester of interning within the industry, meeting alumni who have a career in Hollywood and establishing industry contacts will help you answer that burning question.
In 1781, 44 “vecinos pobladores”—village settlers from the Mexican provinces of Sonora and Sinaloa—settled in what is now downtown Los Angeles and named their new settlement “El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Angeles” or the town of the Queen of the Angels. Little did they know this would eventually become the entertainment capital of the world. The town was officially declared a city in 1835 when the territory changed hands from Spain to Mexico. The Stars and Stripes have flown over the city ever since the American soldiers entered Los Angeles in 1847.
During your semester in Los Angeles, you will be exposed to and participate in a different way of life. You will have the unique opportunity to live, work and study in one of the most vibrant, creative, ethnically diverse cities of the world. As an intern here, you will be able to become an entertainment insider and explore a variety of interests in this unique cultural mecca that boasts more than 300 museums and a paradise of good weather. Working personally with those involved in the makings of film and television, you will have the opportunity to explore potential career paths. Those involved in LA Studies will have direct involvement with professionals in LA, a diverse, urban environment.
It is important to keep in mind that Los Angeles is not like any other city you will visit. Take advantage of the opportunities presented to you and create a few of your own to make the most of your LA experience.
For more detailed information on the city:
Los Angeles – Wikipedia
City of Los Angeles
Discover Los Angeles
Local news, readings and culture
RECOMMENDED READING
These authors will provide a personal perspective of Los Angeles and the entertainment industry:
• Los Angeles: The Architecture of Four Ecologies, Reyner Banham
• Lonely Planet Los Angeles, Andrea Schulte-Peevers
• All Work, No Play, Lauren Berger (aka, The Intern Queen)
• Breaking Into the Biz, Jerry Yerrick Martin
ADDITIONAL HELPFUL WEBSITES
• Backstage West
• Boston University LA Program
• Entertainment Weekly
• Hollywood Reporter
• The Internet Movie Database
• LA Times
• LA Online
• Variety
• The Wrap
• Deadline
In addition to The Los Angeles Times, the area’s major newspaper, you will also find most U.S. newspapers. The free LA Weekly has a listing of activities and is a helpful resource in planning your free time. As an LA student, you should also become familiar with such trade magazines as The Hollywood Reporter and Variety. Both of these are available at the LA program office.
2. Daily Life
Food & Dining
Housing
Students will live in housing in reasonable close proximity to the BU LA program office at 5700 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 675, LA, CA 90036. For more information, students should contact Julliet Mayinja at jmayinja@bu.edu.
Off-Campus Housing
Students are allowed to live “off-campus” on a case-by-case basis and must discuss this with the LA staff in advance. More information on off-campus living can be found on the Los Angeles website under the FAQs. Here is a link.
Dress
Generally, it will be between 80 and 90 degrees at the start of the fall semester and between 58 and 70 degrees in December. The temperature will be around 50 degrees at the beginning of the spring semester, but by the end, the weather should be very nice with temperatures in the nineties. Summer is usually between 85 and 100 degrees. Keep in mind LA is a desert, so most nights are cool.
3. Student Life
Facilities
BU CENTER FACILITIES
All the classes take place at the BULA center on Wilshire Blvd. During the day students can meet with the LA staff in the center as well. In addition, there are five (Apple) computers, with Internet access, and a printer on-site. The Los Angeles office has a scanner, as well as small library of industry-related books, DVDs, and feature scripts. Office hours are 9:00am – 5:00pm, and students are welcome to utilize our resources during those hours.
PARKING
Parking is available for classes after 6:00 pm at the BULA center for students. Students who visit the office during the day will have to pay a regular parking fee.
PHOTOCOPYING
A FedEx Office center is located a block south and west of student housing at 5500 Wilshire Boulevard (323-937-0126).
LOCAL LIBRARIES AND UNIVERSITIES
There are several Los Angeles Public Library locations. Visit www.lapl.org to find the one most convenient for you.
While there may be restrictions on borrowing privileges, you are welcome to use the libraries of the colleges and universities in the Los Angeles area:
• USC Doheny Library 213-740-6050
• UCLA College Library 310-825-9387
• UCLA Univ. Research Lib. 310-825-4732
The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences Library is available for film research. The library is located at 333 South La Cienega Blvd. and can be reached at 310-247-3020. The library is open daily, 9am-3pm, but closed on Wednesdays.
The Writers Guild Foundation Library has a collection of scripts, DVDs and other materials related to screenwriting. It is located at 7000 West Third Street (within walking 4 Boston University Study Abroad Los Angeles distance). 323-782-4544
Textbooks
Students purchase textbooks and course materials independently during the first week of the program.
Field Trips and Program Activities
BU STUDY ABROAD LOS ANGELES POLICY ON “MANDATORY EVENTS ATTENDANCE”
When you come to BU LA, your experience goes far beyond an internship and some classes. It is intended to be a total immersion in the culture of LA. Therefore, we create opportunities for you to experience more than the classroom or the office can possibly provide. Such planned “events” vary from semester to semester; some are class or entertainment-industry related, some offer broader experiences; like cultural enrichment, interaction with your fellow students, or community service.
We clearly state (in the calendar you receive at the beginning of the semester, and through verbal announcements at orientation, and then through e-mail reminders) which events require “mandatory attendance.”
Why?
1) Los Angeles has a very special culture and opportunities that can only happen while you’re here. We go to great lengths to arrange group activities for you. To miss them would be short-changing your experience.
2) It just makes sense to get to know the people you’re here with and to find out more about the place you’ve chosen to study, not to mention a deeper understanding of the entertainment industry that drew you here in the first place.
If you have an emergency and cannot attend a mandatory event, you MUST notify the BU Study Abroad LA administration and/or your teachers with a phone call, or at the very least, an e-mail.
FAQ:
What’s “mandatory?”
Some of our events are “optional-but recommended” and will be marked as such (or you will be told verbally or by e-mail) by staff or faculty. But if it is marked “mandatory”, you’re expected to attend, on time, and we’ll take roll, just like a regular class session.
What if I miss an event for some reason?
If you secure permission (ahead of time) to miss an event (“excused absence”), no problem. But if you miss a mandatory event without permission, we will start lowering your grade.
Why is orientation mandatory?
We in the administration and faculty of the Boston University Study Abroad Los Angeles programs are responsible for your well-being while you’re here. It is vital that you understand all of our policies regarding class requirements, procedures, safety issues and emergency procedures. All of this is covered the day after you arrive, in the orientation session.
What other events might be mandatory?
While the events change from semester to semester, some of the (mandatory) events we have created and successfully produced in the past include:
• Screenings/special guests. We have access to films (often before they’re released—or in some cases classic productions, Academy Award winners, etc.) and sometimes hear special guest speakers (often related to those films); directors, producers, DP’s-it is a special privilege to see these films, and discuss them afterwards in an informal Q&A.
Internships
INTERNSHIPS
There are a wide variety of internships representing all areas of the entertainment industry. They will vary from semester to semester and may include, but are not limited to, working with: producers, agents, development offices, editors, cinematographers, distributors, studio executives, set designers, post production companies, directors, cable companies, television stations, public relations and advertising departments, production managers, independent production companies, entertainment law firms, publicity agencies, and studio management. Students must fulfill hourly requirements, a minimum of 20 hours per week, and will receive graded credit upon completion of the internship. Graduate students are graded on a pass/fail basis.
Securing an Internship
As a reminder, as part of your pre-departure requirements, you are asked to complete an internship questionnaire and submit a sample cover letter and resume. These forms should be completed immediately upon your admission to the program. In mid-October, you will be interviewed by one of the Program Managers, either in person or via Zoom, to determine your interests and skills. During this interview you must submit a polished resume and cover letter for quick review and feedback. Any typos, template errors, or lack of content in these application materials will delay your ability to apply for internships and prevent you from being considered for the most competitive positions. Beginning in November, you’ll gain access to Blackboard, where all the BULA job leads will be posted. Once you start seeing these posts, it is your responsibility to apply. Submit your cover letter and resume only as directed, usually via email.
We also strongly encourage seeking out other internship opportunities on your own. You may utilize your BU and family network or find your own leads. If you pursue any of your own internship contacts, you must get approval from one of the Program Managers prior to accepting any position. All internship suppliers must be vetted and pre-approved.
Internships are not guaranteed. The LA staff will work hard to support you in the job hunt process, but it is your responsibility to secure your own internship.
Resources for resume and cover letter writing are available on the BULA website (www.bu.edu/losangeles). However, please visit your school’s career center at least once early on for assistance with cover letter and resume revisions, as well as reviewing them with the LA Program Directors.
Realities of Being an Intern
Los Angeles has a unique culture, set of habits, attitudes and work ethic. You may encounter all of these differences during your first day of work. At the beginning of the semester, the program staff will help you prepare for your internship in LA.
- When you first go to your internship, be flexible. Take the time to get to know your supervisor and find out what is expected of you. Your supervisor may use the first week or two to test your mettle and find out what you’re all about. If you are given a “no brainer” assignment (i.e., something that makes you think, “I did not come all the way to LA to do this!” or “I’m better than this”), do the assignment cheerfully and with as much effort as you would for one that is challenging. Your supervisor may have given you the assignment not because that’s all they feel you can do, but rather to see how you handle it. Even the most mundane task can turn into something exciting.
- After you have been there for a while, and have proven yourself to your supervisor, you may receive more challenging assignments.
- As with any job, not every day at your internship site will be busy and challenging. Be prepared for slow days and busy work.
- Get to know the people with whom you work. You should cultivate long-standing relationships with them. Be professional, there are lots of things you can learn from your co-workers.
- If you encounter problems with your placement which you are unable to resolve after discussing them with your supervisor, please discuss your concerns with one of the Program Managers immediately.
- Not attending your internship because you’ve decided that you don’t like it, because the credits won’t transfer back to your home institution, or because it’s not what you expected is unacceptable. Unexcused absences from your internship will be reflected in your grade; frequent unexcused absences may result in being fired from the internship and expelled from the program.
- To have a successful internship experience, you must be pro-active, and you must take initiative. Once you begin your internship, keep in mind that you will be responsible for yourself. In many work environments, the staff are extremely busy. As an intern, you may fall through the cracks if you do not assert yourself. You may also need to be comfortable working in an unstructured environment. Take time to get to know your internship supervisors. If you have any questions about your role in the office or about specific assignments, they will be more than willing to assist you.
- Be sure to thank your supervisors for their time and effort. A lot of time and planning goes into hosting an intern, so be sure to show your appreciation and follow up your internship with a thank-you note.
Work Hard
In years past, many BU students have met with successful alumni here in Los Angeles. The students often ask the same question, and get the same answer:
Question: “As an intern, what should I do to better my chances of being asked to stay on or come back to your company as a full-time employee, or to succeed in this field?”
Answer: “If you work as hard as you possibly can, even at menial tasks that you are often asked to do, your enthusiasm and interest will shine through, and you’ll make friends and future contacts. WORK HARD, and the breaks will come your way.”
When asked to do something, don’t sigh or turn a sour expression or suggest that one of your co-workers do the job. Do it, and do it 110%. Do it, even when you’re not asked! So many times someone you’ve done a favor for will be transferred to another area of employment.
So many times, someone ahead of you gets another gig or has to leave their job for various reasons. You’re there, you know the ropes, and you hustle. Bingo!
Academic Culture
Classes are taught by Boston University faculty and alumni, who also provide some internship positions and serve as mentors in and out of the classroom. Guest lecturers are mostly drawn from the incredible list of LA-area Boston University Alumni. For those students enrolled in the Los Angeles Internship Program grading is completed by the lecturer and Boston University faculty. All tracks are graded as they would be on campus.
All classes are scheduled in the evenings to allow students as much time at their internships as possible, so it is imperative that all classes/guest lectures/special events be attended on-time and in full, unless prior permission is granted by Boston University Study Abroad Los Angeles Lead Faculty member for your course. Faculty will be strict about this, and missing over a certain number of classes/guest lectures/special events can be grounds for removal from internships.
BU Study Abroad academic policies regarding grades, tardiness and other requirements.
4. Money Matters
Los Angeles On a Budget
5. Traveling
Local Transportation
CAR
Because public transportation in LA is not as efficient as in other U.S. cities, most internships require that students have a car. Some students choose to drive their cars across the country, some ship their cars, and others prefer a rental car.
Students renting a car are responsible for all fees and regulations associated with the rental. Currently, each student on the program is assigned a reserved parking space; however, space is limited. If you are not given an assigned space, you will be given a general parking space.
Please note: The law in California prohibits all drivers from using a handheld cell phone while driving. Motorists may use a hands-free device.
Will Rent to Students 21-25 at no Extra Charge (Please see “Renting a Car with BU’s Corporate Acount for more information. You must mention this code to receive the dscount. For under 21, there may be an extra charge.)
• Enterprise
323-938-4646
Will Also Rent to Students Under 21
• G & R (formerly Ugly Duckling)
www.go2rentacar.com
310-478-4208
10620 Venice Blvd., Culver City
Complaint—older car (over 150,000 miles)
• Rent4Less Car Rental
www.rentfourless.com
1-866-LESS-RENT (5377-7968)
• SuperCheap Car Rentals
www.supercheapcar.com
310-645-3993
10212 S. La Cienega Blvd., Inglewood
• U-Save Car and Truck Rental
www.rentusave.com
1-800-272-USave (8728)
Renting a Car with BU’s Corporate Account
Boston University does not endorse renting from Enterprise. However, the LA program has a corporate account so that students can rent even if they are under 25. You may be able to rent if you are under 21; please check with Enterprise. If you will be renting, please bear in mind the following:
• Check with your (or your parents’) auto insurance agent to make sure your carrier will cover your rental for the semester. If so, you will need to provide proof of insurance at the rental check-in in LA. If not, check to see if there is a way to add such coverage (it is almost always cheaper than buying coverage from the rental car company).
• The state of CA has minimum insurance requirements that all drivers must meet. Details can be found at www.bu.edu/losangeles/life-in-la/transportation or www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/brochures/fastfacts/ffvr18.htm.
• Most major credit card companies offer a limited amount of car rental insurance if you rent using that card. Typically, it supplements, but does not replace collision or liability insurance. Please investigate carefully if considering using a credit card to insure your rental car.
• Enterprise can arrange for you to take a shuttle from one of the major airports to Park La Brea and then bring your car to you. This usually costs a small fee, which they add to your rental bill.
• When you rent from Enterprise, you need to mention a code. You can get the code from the LA staff. This entitles you to the BU LA student discount and waiver of underage penalty fees. Only students currently participating in the BULA Program may use this code!
• Remember, Boston University does NOT endorse renting from Enterprise. If you have problems, accidents, or other issues with your car, you are responsible with Enterprise. The LA program has searched and set up this relationship with Enterprise purely based on past student feedback for a more coherent, relatively inexpensive, and transparent process. We hope it works well for you.
TRANSPORTATION: GETTING AROUND LA
The easiest way to get around Los Angeles is by car. Los Angeles is a huge cosmopolitan center. Due to its size, getting around can be a challenge.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
Los Angeles does have a transportation system—the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA)—which covers the Greater Los Angeles area from the San Fernando Valley to Northern Orange County with more than 200 routes, 2,500 buses and 54 lightrail cars. MTA buses run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with limited service during the late-night hours and weekends. Information can be obtained online at www.metro.net.
Please note the MTA is effective, but not efficient. If you plan to use it, allow enough time to get where you need to go.
TAXI CABS
Ridershare services (Uber/Lyft) are popular in LA. If you want to take a taxi cab, you need to call in advance. Be aware that both rideshare services and taxi cabs in Los Angeles, if regularly used, can be expensive. Two reputable cab companies in the Los Angeles area are Independent Cab Company, 800-521-8294 and United Independent, 323-653-5050.
Answers to frequently asked transportation questions can be found on the Los Angeles website.
Personal Travel
If you do travel outside of the LA area, you must inform the BULA staff by filling out an “Away Form” online.
The form can be found on the Los Angeles website.
6. Staying Healthy
What To Do If You Get Sick
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Los Angeles is known for it’s healthy lifestyle. There are many places and opportunities to run, walk, cycle and hike. The weather is very conducive to enjoying the outdoors. There are also plenty of exercise studios (yoga, Zumba, Barre, cycling) that students can join. Remember you will be busy with work and school, so if you start to feel overwhelmed, remember how you handled stress in the past. Los Angeles is a huge metropolitan area and you will most likely be able to find many different ways to deal with the challenges.
7. Staying Safe
Keeping Yourself Safe In Los Angeles
Consult a map before setting off on a tour of the city and always be aware of your surroundings, especially during the evening. The following tips will help keep you safe and out of harm’s way.
1) As in any large city, there are some areas that are “sketchy.” The locals (and the staff) know these places; learn them and avoid them.
2) Never:
• leave your car unlocked (or worse, the motor running).
• leave your valuables in your car.
• leave your purse or wallet (or anything that can be grabbed) unattended; strap it to your body and be alert.
• give a ride, open your door, or have contact with a stranger.
3) Always:
• try to travel with a buddy. It builds friendships, saves gas, and gives you some protection and another set of alert eyes.
• keep in touch with the BU Study Abroad Los Angeles staff. Report anything that seems out of order to you; the person hitting on you, the broken door lock, and of course anything that involves anyone breaking the law.
• In case of an emergency, know and follow the emergency procedure you will be given at orientation.
Times will be set aside during on-site orientation to discuss safety and security concerns. Heed the staff’s advice and follow any precautions they suggest, which will include the following:
• Never carry large sums of money.
• Never leave a large amount of cash in your room.
• Bolt your apartment door whenever you leave for class or your internship, or before you go to sleep.
• Leave expensive jewelry and other valuables at home.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Avoid potentially dangerous situations.
• Notify your roommate or suitemates of your plans.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In case of a serious emergency, call 911 and also contact the BULA office during office hours or the RA emergency phone after hours.
Medical Assistance
In the event of a life-threatening medical emergency, the paramedics should be called by dialing 911. You must also contact BULA as soon as possible. The closest hospital is Olympia Medical Center at 5900 W. Olympic Blvd. (310- 657-5900). An alternate larger one, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center at 8700 Beverly Blvd. (310-423-3277), is also nearby. For a non life-threatening situation, you should go tothe Cedars-Sinai Medical Group Urgent Care at: 8501 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 150 Beverly Hills, CA 90211
Earthquake
In the event of an earthquake, you should know where the safest places are in your apartment. If you are indoors, duck or drop to the floor. Take cover under a sturdy desk, table or other furniture. Hold onto it and be prepared to move with it. Hold that position until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move. Be sure not to hang anything heavy over your bed or anything on the walls that can cause damage or injury.
• If you are outside, get into the open, away from buildings and power lines.
• If you are in a car, stop if it is safe, but stay inside. Do not stop on or under a bridge, overpass or tunnel. Move your car as far out of the normal traffic pattern as possible.
• In a crowded public place, do not rush for the exits.
• Stay calm and encourage others to do so as well.
• After an earthquake, DO NOT light a match (in case of a gas leak)
• After a major quake, please contact the staff via email or phone to let the staff know that you are okay.
———– END GUIDE ———–
———– START FINE PRINT ———–
Boston University Study Abroad reserves the right to rescind admission to or continuation in any program if an applicant’s academic or disciplinary record is not satisfactory. Boston University students placed on expulsion, academic suspension, or residence separation are not eligible to participate for the duration of the sanction. Deferred separation status will be reviewed on a case by case basis. Non-Boston University students are expected to verify their eligibility to study abroad with their home institution. In addition, your Boston University student account must be in good standing. University policy requires the withholding of educational services, including participation in a BU Study Abroad program from any student whose financial obligations to the university are due and/or unpaid. In completing your online pre-departure forms, there are a number of terms and conditions that you have agreed to by your electronic signature. In addition, some policies are stated on our website and linked below. We suggest that you review the following with your family, parent/guardian or other interested party: All students should thoroughly review the Boston University Study Abroad Policy on Refunds. This policy applies to all students and should be thoughtfully read when considering a withdrawal from a program. If you have questions, please contact our office. All students should review the Boston University Study Abroad Privacy Notice.The Fine Print: Policies and Procedures
Academic, Disciplinary and Financial Standing
Students’ Responsibilities While Abroad
Policy on Refunds
Privacy Notice
