For years, Publix has hosted summer interns looking to combine the knowledge and skills they learned in college with real-life work experience. The 33 students who participated in Publix’s formal summer internship program this year gained new skills, new friends and — in some cases — new jobs.

Publix’s 2013 summer interns hailed from 14 colleges and included 11 Publix associates. All interns were degree-seeking students who had completed at least one year of college. Publix work experience was not required. The 2013 interns were placed in 29 support departments and completed a variety of projects during the 11-week program.

“Our summer internship program continues to grow year after year, with this group being the largest yet,” said Associate Diversity Development Specialist Greta Dupuy. “We’re so proud of our summer interns who embraced the work experience Publix offers to prepare them for their careers.”

The internship program included more than work-related tasks. Interns were exposed to the Publix culture through luncheons with officers and participation in a community service event. They also experienced different aspects of the company through tours of the Lakeland dairy and bakery plants. The program culminated with a presentation from each student about their internship experience to officers and other Publix leaders.

Sometimes, internships lead to job offers. This summer, Tyana Daley interned in the customer care and social media department. She interacted with customers on Facebook and Twitter, explored new social media platforms and developed a customer service training guide. In the end, she accepted a full-time position as a social media specialist.

“This internship was like none other. I was able to do real work and apply what I had learned in school in a real corporate setting,” said Tyana. “This program taught me so much about Publix and really prepared me for my new role. I’m very excited to have the opportunity to be a Publix associate.”

Interested in a summer internship?

Applicants must be enrolled in college, have a minimum GPA, meet strict criteria on what major they are pursuing and meet other requirements based on the department offering the internship. Summer internship opportunities will be posted in February 2014 at www.publix.jobs/support.

You must apply online to be considered. Resumes sent by mail or email are not considered applications. Selections are made by late March, and selected interns begin work in late May.