This could be one of the coolest, most innovative internship programs that we’ve seen in years.  Eighteen companies in 18 different cities. Eighteen interns ready to experience the ultimate internship adventure. And, when each student initially applied, they had no idea where in the world they would end up. That’s just one reason why BlindApplying.com is so unique and exciting! This program was initiated by Deutsche Telekom.

In its first year, Blind Applying – a project led by the Entrypark team of the global research firm Potentialpark — received more than 10,000 applications. Each student submitted just one CV that was then considered by participating companies.

Consider it the “NFL draft” of the internship world. College students anticipating calls from any one of 18 top companies, including Accenture, Daimler, EY, Allianz, Munich RE, ThyssenKrupp and Merck.

Quick Facts about the Project

• 50% – Applicants with business related degrees

• 23% – Candidates in engineering programs

• 56% – Percentage of students that  heard about the program from Facebook

• Most represented countries:  Germany, France, Portugal, Italy, India and the UK

• Gender demographic:  50/50 split between male and female applicants

Internship Adventures of a Lifetime

As if interning in France, Australia or Japan wasn’t enough! These fortunate undergrads — who begin their paid internships soon — each received a travel and housing stipend. Students are also encouraged to write about their experiences via the project’s website.  

Doing It Again in 2015

Already dubbed a success, Blind Applying has received an HR Excellence Award and the Trendence Employer Branding Award. And, when surveyed, more than 80% of applicants indicating that they would apply again if offered the chance. So, it’s on again!  The team at Entrypark wants to kick the program up a notch and go from 18 to 30 companies, including U.S. businesses.

Y’all ready for this?

Back in the day, as an undergraduate student, I would have absolutely applied for something like this had it been offered in the States. Are U.S. companies ready for Blind Applying?

Would your company consider participating in this project in 2015? Would campus career centers help promote this to their students? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes” (or you just want more information), please contact Bjorn Wigeman or visit BlindApplying.com.