For students
Build real skills through projects with real impact.
Join a student team doing real client work for NYC small businesses. Build experience you can show in applications, portfolios, and interviews.
The three tracks
Every project is staffed by students across our three tracks. Pick the one that fits your skills and interests.
Your track
Digital & Tech
Responsibilities
- Build and launch websites for client businesses
- Set up backend workflows: forms, databases, auth, automations
- Optimize Google Maps and Yelp listings for search visibility
- Implement SEO improvements and accessibility fixes
- Deploy and maintain code in a shared production repo
Who fits in
- React.js or TypeScript, with some backend or API experience
- Comfortable with GitHub and basic deployment workflows
- Interest in working on full-stack production systems
Sample project
Launch a neighborhood business site
Turn a local business story into a fast, clear, customer-ready web experience.
The leadership track
We promote based on the work you do, not how long you have been here. Strong contributors move up quickly.
Analyst
Contribute to live projects and ship your first client-facing work.
Senior Analyst
Own your workstream and mentor newer analysts on execution quality.
Associate
Coordinate with your team, manage key project pieces, and keep client deadlines on track.
Senior Associate
Lead work across multiple teams and help set the standard for how projects get done.
Project Lead
Run a project from start to finish. You lead the team and own the client relationship.
Other roles
Neighborhood Liaison
Bridge our project teams and local business owners. You do outreach, join BID visits, and build the on-the-ground relationships that make our work possible.
School Ambassador
Represent Novus at your school. You recruit new members, run info sessions, and serve as the main point of contact between your campus and Novus leadership.
Head of City Expansion
Launch Novus in a new city. You build local partnerships and establish the first student teams and operating structure from scratch.
Your Novus journey
Work you can put on your resume.
Follow the steps from application to work you can use in college applications, interviews, and future roles.
Start here
Share your interests and availability.
Start with a short application covering your school, preferred track, and availability.
Tell us what you want to work on and when you can contribute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting started
Is this paid?
No. Novus is a nonprofit and all roles are volunteer. You get real project experience, portfolio work, references, and the opportunity to move into a leadership role.
What skills are helpful?
It depends on the track. Digital & Tech work benefits from coding experience, while Finance & Operations and Marketing have roles for students building their skills.
Is it remote?
Yes. All work is remote. Some NYC members choose to join in-person client visits, but it is not required.
How much time does it take?
About 2 to 4 hours per week. Some weeks are lighter, some are busier when deadlines are close.
How long is a project?
It varies. There is no fixed semester commitment. You work on a project until it ships, then you can take on another.
Can college students apply?
Yes. We recruit from CUNY schools and colleges across the country. College students often move into team lead roles.
Tracks and projects
What kinds of projects can I work on?
Projects can include website development, social media and branding, grant and funding research, ambassador work, small business outreach, financial analysis, and neighborhood work. Your track and interests help guide your assignment.
How do Marketing subdepartments work?
Marketing has four focus areas, split by who the work is for. Small Business Outreach and Novus Social Media & Branding serve the small businesses we take on as clients. Grants & Funding and Novus Ambassadors support Novus itself — funding the organization and recruiting the next group of students. Members can focus on one area or contribute across all four.
Can I choose my track?
Yes. You can tell us which track interests you most when you apply. We will match you based on your interests, background, and the projects currently underway.
What happens after I apply?
We review applications on a rolling basis against current team openings. If there is a fit, we will email your onboarding steps, track, and team assignment. Not every applicant will receive a call.
Will I work directly with business owners?
Many members do. Project teams share updates with clients and some NYC members can join optional in-person visits. You will always have support from a project lead.
Experience and growth
Can I use my work in a portfolio?
Yes, once a project is public and the client has approved it. We want members to leave with concrete work they can confidently show to future employers, schools, and collaborators.
Can I stay involved after a project ends?
Absolutely. Members can take on another project, mentor newer students, help with recruiting, or pursue leadership roles as they gain experience.
Do you accept students outside New York City?
Yes. Our work is primarily remote, so students from outside NYC can contribute. In-person opportunities are optional and currently centered in New York City.
What should I include in my application?
Tell us about your interests, relevant coursework or experience, and what you hope to learn. We care more about curiosity, follow-through, and care for community businesses than a perfect resume.