Other Experiences

Work-Based Learning Opportunities

Job Shadow

Job Shadowing provides individuals with an opportunity to spend time with a professional in a career that is of interest to them. Experience a work environment in a chosen profession.

• Can be offered to middle and high school students, as well as to college students and adults
• Lasts from a few hours, day, or to a week
• Is an opportunity to experience day-to-day activities, interact, and interview professionals within the chosen profession

Where can I find job shadow experiences?

If there is an employer that you are interested in call their Human Resources Department and express your interest as a student in learning more about their industry and company. Ask if they would be open to arranging a job shadow experience with you even if for a day.

Externship

An externship is a combination of a job shadow and internship.

• Last over small periods of time, ex. small school break, a day to 8 weeks
• Are usually given without school credit
• Are mostly unpaid

Apprenticeship

An Apprenticeship is an "earn while you learn" training model managed by a "program sponsor" that includes:

• Paid on-the-job training under the supervision of experienced journeyworkers with related classroom instruction to prepare individuals for skilled occupations
• Work as you complete classes; work schedule will be determined by respective employers
• A nationally recognized Certificate of Completion with the highly skilled "journeyworker" designation upon graduation
• A one to five years commitment, depending on the occupation

Apprenticeship helps you to realize your career goals by providing a great salary and long-term career opportunities. Most apprenticeship programs require that you be 18 years of age and have a high school diploma or GED.

Steps to becoming an apprentice:

• Determine the trade/occupation you are interested in
• Contact the program sponsor to inquire about minimum requirements for the program
• Complete the program sponsor application process
• Go through the interview and selection process
• If selected, sign an apprenticeship agreement and registration form acknowledging the terms and conditions of the program

Click here to learn more about joining an apprenticeship program.

Volunteering

"Volunteering as a pathway to employment." Examples include AmeriCorps (statewide) and the Peace Corps. Volunteering can be very similar to an internship and offer some great perks including stipends and educational grants.

• Develop workplace skills
• Work on similar tasks and at similar capacities as an actual employee or intern
• Gain exposure to different communities and organizations, which could help an individual choose a certain career path
• Potentially leads to an internship or permanent job opportunity within the organization or through meeting and networking with other volunteers and/or employees
• Usually unpaid, possible stipends for living and education

Recent research from the Corporation for National & Community Service has shown that:

• Volunteers have a 27 percent higher likelihood of finding a job after being out of work than non-volunteers
• Volunteers without a high school diploma have a 51 percent higher likelihood of finding employment
• Volunteers living in rural areas have a 55 percent higher likelihood of finding employment