I was offered the position about four days after my internship for the summer. I got the ExpressJet one too. American offered a payed slot and my pocket book one.
I was a Summer '07 intern, interviewed about this time (middle of March) and was offered my position by Lisa in April (I believe the first week or so).
When I was there, there were 5 paid positions. My position was in the Flight Training Department - Program Development, which is a paid position. I helped with creating CBT lessons, among other computer training products. I also helped in the publications department as needed.
I did not have jumpseat privileges (as all interns interning in the same region was not allowed to, this region included SWA and CAL, so I don't know what the policies are now). I did get some 767 sim time and excellent travel privileges (D2 standby). By the way, when traveling D2, try to get first class, it's worth it.
As far as my experience, I had a blast and would do it again. There were a total of 21 interns during that summer, most were based in DFW. Everybody at work were friendly and helpful and all-around great to work with. Lisa was really cool and really helpful with everything, very informative too. She may be running around and look too busy, but she'll gladly talk with you if you want to. I also volunteered to help out with the Museum's summer camps that they do for young kids, I would recommend that. We got to tour the mxt facilities at DFW and Alliance.
I would say to try to get the most out of your internship, whereever you decide to go. While there, you have almost an unlimited access to all kinds of information about a company that you'll probably want to work for later on. Move around and meet people in different departments, grab their business cards, don't be shy. Use those travel privileges. We would do "one-day" trips, they were fun and cheap and you would still have Sunday to spend the rest of the weekend to see a Ranger's game. One Saturday, we took the first flight to Philly, got on the train to downtown, walked to Pat's for a cheesesteak, walked to Independence Hall, then went back to the airport and got the last flight back to DFW. Another good one, btw, is a day trip to IAD, there is a shuttle that'll take you to the new air and space museum (free), the shuttle cost something like $1.00 roundtrip.
Anyway, just by traveling you'll get to know how airline operations work and you'll really get to know airports and what to do while you're waiting standby. Try not to get caught at an airport overnight on a Sunday like I did in SMF. :/
The "Pink Palace" is a popular one, and it litterally a stone's throw from the Flight Academy (definitely within walking distance, next to the Fort Worth ARTCC too). The official name is Camden Oasis, I stayed there, wasn't a bad gated community and they offer discounts for AA employees/interns. Also, in the neighborhood (and again, within walking distance, but a little farther this time) is a fantastic little neighborhood bar called The Yact Club. Make sure your shuffle-board game is up to par.
Another place that other interns stayed was Camden Centreport which is just south of Headquarters. Those looked pretty nice too, but there are a bunch of other apartments in the area.
I haven't heard back yet, I interviewed 3/4. My friend that goes to my school got the paid one, he got a call two weeks after his interview.
Good luck to everyone who has not heard back yet. Inky, thanks for sharing your advise, everyone I've talked to that has done it said it was an amazing time - hopefully I get a call!
I would definately recommend taking a trip to Joe T. Garcia's while you're down there. It's in Fort Worth, but definately worth the drive if you have access to a car. It's by far some of the best Mexican food I've ever had.
While not a place to "stay" (per se), no trip to the DFW area is complete until you spend an evening at the Flying Saucer.
Agreed, thank's for bringing that up. I cannot believe I forgot to mention the good times at the Flying Saucer....I still have my pint glass to prove it! Downtown Ft. Worth is where it's at. They have a really good duel piano bar too.
Also, if you decide to fly a Cessna or Piper around while you're there, head southwest to the Stephenville airport. Take one of the two courtesy golf carts (one is more tricked out than the other, would recommend that one) and drive it about .5 miles down the road to one of the best bbq places in TX. Also, since it's in a dry county, free beer is provided so bring a DP (Designated Pilot).
To bad the jumpseat is gone for now.. Always enjoyed having the interns up there... usually brought them with me on the walk around, let them set up the FMC, and chow down on those delicious crew meals..
Good luck to all, hope someday to hire again, and see you all onboard.