How the Ann Arbor SPARK Digital Summer Clinic is Igniting Careers

Breaking into tech and startups isn’t easy — especially for students and recent grads looking for real-world experience. That’s where the Eastern Michigan University Digital Summer Clinic (DSC) administered by Ann Arbor SPARK comes in.

Every summer, the Digital Summer Clinic gives college students the chance to step beyond the classroom and into the world of Southeast Michigan startups—and it’s so much more than just an internship. This paid, hands-on program is designed to help students gain real-world experience in digital marketing, UX design, branding, business strategy, and more while working on actual client projects that make an impact. Past interns have done everything from running Google Ads campaigns and creating YouTube Shorts to optimizing websites and analyzing data—building skills that companies are actively looking for.

But what really makes this program special? The mentorship and the community. Interns don’t just work with a startup; they also join a cohort of peers and meet weekly with experienced mentors—leaders from Google, Duo Security, Pinterest, Zingerman’s, and Eastern Michigan University’s Center for Digital Engagement. These meetings aren’t just about career advice (though you’ll get plenty of that). They’re about helping interns navigate challenges, build confidence, and walk away with a stronger portfolio, a bigger network, and a clearer vision for what’s next.

Founded by Bud Gibson and Bill Mayer, the Digital Summer Clinic is powered by Ann Arbor SPARK’s high-tech incubator and offers 48 paid internships every summer. If you’re looking for an opportunity to get hands-on experience, work with innovative startups, and make connections that could shape your career, this is the place to start.

For Josh Thompson, a former DSC intern turned Digital Marketing & Graphic Design Manager at SPARK, the experience was career-defining. “The DSC immersed me in a world I was barely aware of, let alone capable of navigating by myself: the tech startup community. I was suddenly in direct contact with early-stage companies facing real challenges. The experience I gained and the people I met formed the foundation of my career path.”

Josh’s time at the Digital Summer Clinic didn’t just introduce him to startups — it led to a full-time role at SPARK, where he now mentors new interns and supports local businesses. "What started as a summer internship has turned into 10 years."

The Digital Summer Clinic has helped launch hundreds of careers, including these two former interns who turned their experience into lasting success.

From Unemployed to a Career in Finance: Michelle’s Story

After earning a master’s degree in User Experience and Design from the University of Michigan, Michelle Karls struggled to land a job in her field. A friend encouraged her to apply for the Digital Summer Clinic, and soon she was working on branding and website development for one of SPARK’s clients.

During her internship, she helped redesign the company’s website and branding while working with a business strategist who showed her how UX design aligns with business goals. That collaboration changed everything. “Halfway through the clinic, a client I was working with asked if I’d like to work for his company,” Michelle said. “That’s where I’ve been ever since — doing UX design at Keystone Private Capital.”

The Digital Summer Clinic helped Michelle gain confidence, expand her network, and launch her career in finance. “The hands-on experience was invaluable,” she said. “I learned how to lead a project, collaborate with peers, and solve real business challenges — skills I use every day.”

From Pouring Cement to Working at Google: Nick’s Story

Before joining DSC, Nicholas Woods worked for his aunt’s cement company, earning good money but lacking career direction. He wasn’t interested in internships — until the clinic team reached out and encouraged him to apply.

Nick was paired with Genomenon, a biotech startup, and within a few months, he was offered a full-time job upon graduation. “Being part of the SPARK community was awesome — I met so many people, and that exposure was invaluable,” Nick said.

His internship introduced him to digital marketing and advertising, which became his passion. After working in biotech, he transitioned into digital advertising, landed a role at Google, and worked his way up to Senior Account Manager. “This internship helps you meet so many people, and those connections are the same people who might interview you someday.”

Now, Nick mentors new interns at DSC. “I was hesitant about internships at first, and now I get to help others realize their potential,” he said. “Seeing interns get hired because of the skills they learned here — that’s what makes it all worth it.”

Why the Digital Summer Clinic Stands Out

The Digital Summer Clinic prepares interns for more than entry-level jobs — it launches careers. "Many positions advertised as ‘entry level’ still require experience,” Josh said. "Programs like the DSC help bridge that gap by giving students real-world experience companies are looking for."

DSC also solves a major challenge for both students and startups. "Ann Arbor has incredible schools and innovative companies, but transitioning from education to career is tough for new grads. At the same time, startups struggle to attract the talent they need to grow," Josh said. "The DSC creates opportunities for students and startups that wouldn’t exist otherwise."

By working on real client projects, collaborating with mentors, and gaining in-demand skills, DSC graduates stand out in the job market. "Having gone through the program myself, I know firsthand how much good it can do," Josh said. "Both students and startups shape the future of our economy — so why not invest in them now?"

The Digital Summer Clinic: A Launchpad for Careers

The Digital Summer Clinic has helped launch hundreds of careers in tech, marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship.

By gaining real-world experience and professional connections, interns leave the program prepared for high-demand jobs. "Not everybody has a traditional career path, and that’s okay," Michelle said. "The Digital Summer Clinic helps you find your way, build a network, and gain experience that makes a difference."

The 2025 Digital Summer Clinic is now accepting applications. If you’re a college student or recent graduate looking for hands-on experience in tech and digital marketing, this paid, part-time internship could be your next big opportunity.

Let the Digital Summer Clinic help launch your career.