, /PRNewswire/ -- Manhattan's , which focuses on the business of fashion and lifestyle, today announced a new policy requiring that all students be compensated for internships and co-operative (co-op) work experiences at minimum wage or above. It applies to in-person, remote, and hybrid internships and co-op experiences. The new policy will be phased in over three years, beginning this fall and progressing through the 2026-2027 academic year, when it will cover all students.
"Internships and co-op experiences are vital components of a comprehensive education, offering students real-world experiences, the ability to develop professional skills, and the opportunity to build valuable networks within their chosen fields. Unpaid internships can create significant barriers for many students, particularly those from underrepresented, first-generation or low-income backgrounds who can be locked out of coveted pre-career experiences if they lack the financial resources to accommodate unpaid experiences," said . "With this new policy, we are creating a more equitable and supportive environment for our students that also recognizes the valuable contributions they make.
For employers, this policy will lead to larger, more diverse talent pipelines, fostering inclusivity and driving innovation within their organizations. It is the right thing to do and will ultimately lead to a stronger fashion industry." said that the college is committed to working closely with industry employers to prep.