Mentor a Muskie

MHS Academic Internship Program

Muscatine High School g2 juniors will pilot a new program this spring (April 16-May4) when they participate in a three-week Academic Internship at a local business. These students will be working alongside a mentor who will guide, support, and teach them how to be successful in the workplace which will give Muscatine students a measureable advantage over students who do not have an internship experience in high school.

The Academic Internship (AI) Program is more developed than a simple job shadow, because students will be expected to go to work every afternoon for three weeks, to meet the professional expectations of the workplace, and to create and complete a meaningful project for the business.

Studies show that well-structured internships have a positive effect on student academic performance by increasing student awareness of the relevance of school and learning for their future professions, offering authentic work environments for the application of knowledge and the development of new skills, and providing mentors who inspire and support student aspirations. (Source: “School-to-Work: Making a Difference in Education” Published in February 2001 by the Institute on Education and the Economy (IEE) at Teachers College, Columbia University.)

The minimum amount of time a student will spend at the workplace is 45 hours, and the internship is unpaid; however, the wealth of experience and skills a student will walk away with are immeasurable. 85-99% of students who complete an academic internship in high school, attend and graduate from college or other postsecondary programs, because they have seen the world of work and what it takes to succeed.

Along with promoting college and career readiness, students will have the opportunity to build a positive and professional relationship with their workplace mentor. This serves as another avenue to support student success, and fosters a sense of community and commitment.

Workplace mentors and businesses also benefit from hosting a student intern. Mentors develop leadership skills, establish a sense of pride in their work, and enhance their reputation as community builders. They will also be integral in the development of the future leaders and business people of Muscatine.