There are many ways students can gain hands-on learning experiences. Below are a just a few ways to provide real work experience.
Learn how your child can gain work experience while still in school.
Job Shadow
Job shadowing allows students to explore a specific career by following an employee while they perform their typical work duties in a real-world work environment. Job shadowing is a temporary and unpaid experience that provides valuable career information to participants. Find local job shadowing opportunities here.
Does your child like working with his or her hands? Connect them with positions in manufacturing and technology through job shadow programs by Dream it! Do it!
Do you have a budding medical professional who is interested in the nursing or medical field? If so, check out opportunities offered by the Integris Hospital Job Shadow Program.
Age limit:
Students of any age can participate in a job shadow experience.
Internship
Internships are great for students who want to work in an organization, sometimes without pay, in order to gain work experience, satisfy requirements for a credential or gain course credit while still in high school.
Age limit:
Internships are typically for students in their junior or senior year.
For details about how an internship can positively impact your child, listen to stories from students at Hilldale High School here.
Pre-Apprenticeship
Age limit:
Students will need to consult with their local school counselor as age limits will vary.
Apprenticeship
Apprenticeships are highly formal job training experiences that involve studying with an experienced mentor on the job. Student apprentices can “earn while they learn,” since apprenticeships are full-time, paid positions that provide specialized training in specific industries.
Age limit:
Apprentices must be high school graduates since apprenticeships are full-time job commitments.
To learn more about ways to provide your child with meaningful work environment experiences connect with their school ICAP leader or view this helpful guide Service Learning and/or Work Environment (Work-Based Learning) Activities