Internship Program Info
Normal West Internship Program
What Is It?
The Internship Program is a course option for senior students. Internships are opportunities for students to explore how their interests relate to possible careers. They are important learning experiences that can help students make more informed decisions about their career path by observing and becoming acquainted with careers in a more specific way, as well as open doors with potential future employers. As these internships are unpaid, students have the advantage of experiencing the entire scope of a career instead of just entry-level positions. Students also have in-class experiences such as creating a portfolio, weekly reflections and internship projects that help students strengthen their career-related experiences.
Why Should Students Intern?
Internships are a great way to learn about different careers, as well as get experience that you can include on your resume and college applications. Internships can teach students as much or more than many classes. Students learn what certain careers involve * gain hands on experience and transferable skills * work with professionals * make key contacts and increase future marketability * gain confidence in their abilities * develop new skills and refine others * acquire job search skills * develop professionalism.
What Are Student Interns Saying?
“I would recommend everyone to do this, because no matter how great your teacher is you just can’t get real-world experience in the classroom. If a student is on the borderline between a couple of things to do for their career, this would be perfect because it gives a view to a whole new world.” – Cooper Temples, Class of ‘25, Intern at CORE3 Properties
“I really like the first-hand experience that I have gotten throughout this semester - it’s been really cool and helpful.” – Shelby Sennett, Class of ’25, Intern at Hernandez Dental
“The internship program helped me get a look into a career that I thought I may be interested in but wasn’t sure. It was a lot of fun but still helped me prepare for my college major. I looked forward to my internship every day!” – Ava Starkey, Class of ’23, Intern at Select Screen Prints
“I like being able to get real world experience in different professions prior to graduation. The program is useful in deciding what you want or don’t want to do, before you spend thousands of dollars on further education.” – Evan Pattelli, Class of ’25, Intern at PodCATS Podcast
“As someone who always knew they wanted to be a teacher, I was able to further explore this passion of mine through the internship program. I got to work in multiple grade levels with different teachers and students and was able to gain extra field experience before my college placements ever began. Not only was I more prepared for my college courses, but it was an experience that solidified by desire to be a teacher. I would highly recommend the internship program to anyone wanting to explore their own passions and interests!” – Alexa Starkey, Class of ’20, Intern at Prairieland Elementary
How Do I Sign Up?
The first step is to fill out this FORM - this is for informational purposes and allows the Internship Coordinator and counselors to make sure each student can fit the Internship into their senior year schedule.
The second step is talk with your counselor when signing up for classes so it is part of your schedule.
Questions?
Contract Mr. Franz at franztp@unit5.org with any and all questions!