9 MORE Paid 2026 Travel Opportunities for Students & Early-Career Professionals in Finance, Law, STEM & Public Health - Part 2
It’s all-expenses-paid travel season! Part 1 of this new series did extremely well! I went back to the drawing board to find more programs, even some outside of the U.S! I’m open to suggestions for new industries and I’m turning this into a Notion database - so stay tuned!
Benefits of paid early career programs include:
Opportunities to network horizontally with peers from all around the world
Exposure to different career paths that you may have never discovered before
Your chance to feel like the coolest kid on campus because companies are flying you out to learn from them, build your resume, and do what you do best: excel in your early career
Grow your professional network with recruiters, leaders, and future mentors who can guide you to early-career opportunities at your dream organizations.
A common theme across all the programs shared is that travel, lodging, and meals are provided. Some even PAY YOU for attending, or could lead to other internships and full-time roles at their organization, thanks to your participation in the program.
Below are nine early career programs (summits, internships, fellowships, etc) that you can apply for in 2026. Whether you're an aspiring pre-law or a future world leader for change, these are high-impact opportunities worth bookmarking.
APPLY ASAP
〰️
APPLY ASAP 〰️
1. Duke Pre-Law Fellowship
Hosted by Duke University School of Law, the Prelaw Fellowship is a multi-week summer program for rising sophomores and juniors with an interest in law, equity, and public service. The program includes law school prep workshops, LSAT support, networking with legal professionals, and insight into the admissions process—aimed at helping underrepresented and first-gen students pursue legal careers.
Important Dates:
Application deadline: March 6, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET
Letters of Recommendation deadline: March 13, 2026
Program dates: May 31 – June 26, 2026
What’s covered and provided?
All programming, room and board, books, and course packets
$1,000 stipend for participation
Travel to and from Duke Law
Who can apply:
Class of 2028 or 2029 students at four-year colleges, community colleges, or technical colleges
Students attending schools in the Southeastern U.S. are especially encouraged
First-gen, low-income, transfer students, or those historically underrepresented in law
Applicants passionate about equity, justice, and serving diverse communities
APPLY HERE BY MARCH 6, 2026
2. TMCF x Costco HBCU Accounting Summer Internship
Hosted in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, the 2026 Costco Accounting Internship is a fully funded, 10–12 week paid summer experience for HBCU students interested in accounting, finance, or business. Interns will join Costco’s Accounting Division in Issaquah, Washington, where they’ll gain exposure to departments like payroll, inventory audit, and sales, while working on real projects alongside Costco’s permanent staff.
Important Dates:
Program dates: May 11 – August 7, 2026
Application deadline: APPLY ASAP
What’s covered and provided?
$27/hour pay for 40 hours/week
Free housing and travel covered by TMCF
Professional development, networking, and intern-focused activities
Hands-on experience with SAP, auditing, coding entries, and financial systems
Who can apply:
Students currently enrolled at a 4-year TMCF HBCU
Majoring in accounting, finance, business, or related majors
Must pass background check and drug screening
Basic Excel knowledge required; cover letter mandatory
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON A ROLLING BASIS
3. Georgetown University’s Cancer Undergraduate Research Experience and Mentorship – CURE-M
Georgetown University’s Cancer Undergraduate Research Experience and Mentorship (CURE-M) program is a 10-week, full-time summer experience that provides mentored research in cancer biology, prevention, and health disparities. Students are placed in Georgetown Lombardi labs, attend weekly seminars, and participate in professional development to prepare for future research careers or graduate education.
Important Dates:
Program dates: June 1 – August 7, 2026
Application deadline: February 6, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST
What’s covered and provided?
$5,000 stipend and housing for select interns
Hands-on mentored research training
Weekly seminars, workshops, and networking opportunities
Final research presentation
Who can apply:
Students graduating May 2027 or later, with at least one year of college completed
Minimum 3.0 GPA
Community college students eligible
Open to students with U.S. student visas
APPLY HERE BY FEBRUARY 6, 2026
4. Walmart’s Sophomore Summit for Software Engineers
Walmart’s Sophomore Summit is a three-day immersive experience for students interested in careers in software engineering, AI, and machine learning. Held at Walmart’s Home Office in Bentonville, Arkansas. This summit gives participants insight into Walmart Global Tech’s impact and the chance to interview for a 2027 internship.
Important Dates:
Apply ASAP - Program is in Spring 2026
What’s covered and provided?
Travel and housing support expected
Networking with leaders, interns, and associates
Tour of Walmart’s brand-new corporate campus
Workshops and sessions on AI/ML and tech career paths
Who can apply:
Undergraduates graduating between Dec 2027 – Aug 2028
Majors in Computer Science, EE, Math, Stats, or related
Strong Python, machine learning, and AI skills required
Immigration sponsorship is not available
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON A ROLLING BASIS
5. Discovery EY - UK Summit
Discover EY is a two-day insight experience for first-year UK university students (or second-year of a four-year degree) considering a future in professional services. Through one of two tailored tracks—Black Heritage in Business or Social Mobility in Business—participants get exposure to EY’s culture, service lines, and future career paths.
Important Dates:
April 2026 at various EY UK offices in Birmingham, Edinburgh, Leeds, London, or Manchester
What’s covered and provided?
Career development workshops and mock interviews
Insight into Assurance, Tax, Strategy & Transactions, and Technology
Networking with EY professionals and early-career recruiters
Pathway to a paid internship offer AND travel reimbursements
Who can apply:
First-year UK university students or second-year of a four-year course
Black Heritage in Business: For students of Black or Mixed-Black heritage
Social Mobility in Business: Must meet at least one of the following:
- Attended a state school or college
– First in immediate family to attend university
– Received free school meals
– Grew up in a low-income household
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON A ROLLING BASIS
6. One Young World Summit 2026
One Young World brings together the world’s most impactful young leaders to accelerate social impact. Every year, hundreds of fully funded scholarships are offered for emerging changemakers to attend the global Summit, where they’ll join thought leaders, world-class speakers, and fellow delegates working on pressing global issues.
Important Dates:
Summit dates: November 3–6, 2026 (Cape Town International Convention Centre, South Africa)
Scholarship application deadlines: February 16, 2026 - February 23, 2026
What’s covered and provided?
Summit access and delegate badge
Round‑trip travel to/from Cape Town
Hotel accommodation and shared meals during the Summit
Networking with global leaders and youth changemakers
Who can apply:
Young leaders (typically ages 18–30) making measurable impact in business, policy, education, health, or community work
Scholarship eligibility varies by award; check details for specific criteria
APPLY HERE BY FEBRUARY 23, 2026
7. GE Aerospace LIFT Summit
The Leaders Innovating Flight for Tomorrow (L.I.F.T.) Summit is GE Aerospace’s flagship three-day immersive career development event for university students. This invite-only program is designed to give future aerospace leaders firsthand insight into GE’s culture, innovation, and early career pathways. Students will network with top executives, explore the headquarters in Cincinnati, and even interview for internships and full-time opportunities.
Important Dates:
Summer 2026 (Exact dates TBA) - Held in Cincinnati, Ohio
What’s covered and provided?
Round-trip travel to and from Cincinnati
Hotel lodging and meals
Facility tours, cultural immersion, and networking with GE leaders
Guaranteed interviews for 2027 internships, co-ops, and full-time roles
Who can apply:
University students interested in aerospace or engineering careers
GE is especially seeking applicants from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM
SUBMIT YOUR INTEREST HERE, APPS OPEN SOON
8. Maternal Child Health Careers/Research Initiatives for Student Enhancement - Undergraduate Program (MCHC/RISE-UP)
The Maternal and Child Health Careers/Research Initiatives for Student Enhancement-Undergraduate Program (MCHC/RISE-UP) offers public health leadership training to undergraduate juniors, seniors, and recent grads. Hosted by Kennedy Krieger Institute with support from the CDC, this program provides real-world experience in clinical, research, and community engagement settings focused on health equity, developmental disabilities, and social determinants of health.
Important Dates:
May 25 – July 30, 2026 (program dates vary per placement site)
Application deadline is January 31, 2026
Orientation held in Baltimore, Maryland
Program sites include:
• Kennedy Krieger Institute (Johns Hopkins)
• University of South Dakota
• UC Davis MIND Institute
• Aaniiih Nakoda College (Fort Belknap Community) - housing not offeredHousing provided at 3 out of 4 placement sites
What’s covered and provided?
$5,400 stipend (salary is $4,900 at UC Davis)
Weekly seminars, conferences, and collaborative projects
In-person orientation and hybrid/virtual options available
Who can apply:
Rising juniors or seniors OR those who earned a bachelor's degree within the past year
2.7+ GPA
U.S. citizen, national, or permanent resident
Strong interest in public health, maternal/child health, or health equity
APPLY HERE BY JANUARY 31, 2026
9. PEAK6 Trading Bootcamp Micro-Internship
Hosted in Chicago, this one-week immersive micro-internship by PEAK6 Capital Management introduces undergraduates to the fast-paced world of proprietary trading. Participants will explore options trading through hands-on projects, access live trading desks, and direct mentorship from experienced traders, offering a real glimpse into careers in financial markets.
Important Dates:
Two sessions available: May 18–22, 2026 or August 17–21, 2026
Held in Chicago, Illinois
What’s covered and provided?
Flights, housing, and a competitive hourly stipend
Educational sessions + real-world trading simulations
Feedback and mentorship from professional traders
Networking with PEAK6 leadership and recruiting consideration
Who can apply?
Undergraduate juniors (graduating between Dec 2026 – June 2027)
Legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Strong interest in trading, finance, or quantitative problem-solving
APPLY HERE ASAP, APPS REVIEWED ON ROLLING BASIS
✨ Pro tips for your applications
Start early – Some require essays, transcripts, or letters of recommendation.
Tailor your application – Highlight your academic background, projects, or unique perspective. Share the story of you! People want to get to know you and how attending this program can change your life. HERE is my go-to resume guide with a template that’s landed me and other roles at top Fortune 500 companies!
Follow–up - Keep an eye on emails for deadlines and next steps. There’s always a contact email to reach out to if you have additional questions
Reach out to program alumni for application advice - You can find them on LinkedIn, or maybe TikTok if they did a vlog during the program! Don’t be afraid to pick their brains, they’re your peers!
