The Work Studies Program is a program that offers senior students the opportunity to gain work experience while still being able to go to school. By participating in this program, students can develop work-valuable job skills, build a professional network, and better manage their time between academic and work responsibilities.
Many people believe this program is a good choice, and senior Haneen Aref agreed by saying it gives you the responsibility of balancing your job responsibilities and your academic work. “It’s a really good way to represent yourself,” she stated. This program prepares students for future career success and helps them gain valuable experience that not only enhances a student’s resume, but also equips them with practical skills and work ethic that are highly looked upon in the professional world.
In this program, students follow the same schedule every day and leave at 12 o’clock. To participate, you must have a job beforehand. If you get fired or quit, you have 10 days to find a new job. During those 10 days, you will have three study hall periods as you are unable to leave the school. This program is ideal for students who want to earn money and gain work experience. Senior students Safaa Eldeeb and Haneen Aref advise juniors that are considering applying for the program to ensure they meet all their requirements before applying and to choose a job they enjoy. Roddy Melendez adds, “Definitely do it, it’s kinda fun.”
In the beginning, the only initial requirement is that you have a job. Mr. Ferrare, the head of the program, explains that in the program, there is a large variety of jobs available like child care, retail, restaurants, and more. Juniors can sign up with guidance at the end of the year. The maximum number of hours is 40 per week–as per state law–but you are required to at least have 12 by the end of the week to be in the program.
If you are looking for a less-intensive option, the Wayne Valley Senior Internship might be the path for you. Like the Work Studies Program, this is only available for seniors and is a great option for students who want work experience while simultaneously earning credits. Valley offers five, ten, and fifteen course credit opportunities, which count as one, two or three class periods. Students find their own internship opportunity, and then this acts as a full-year course. Besides completing their internship, students must maintain an hour log and a written two-hundred word paragraph per marking period.
Both of these programs provide unique opportunities for students to explore potential career paths and fields they might be interested in. For more information, you can contact guidance or email Mr. Ferrare.
