As the end of the year approaches, the senior class begins searching for internships that will kick start their journey toward careers. Whether students are committing to college or planning to take their career goals straight into the workforce, anyone with a 70 or higher in all classes is eligible to participate in the program and find an internship of their choice.
Business teacher Mrs. Melissa Cacioppo, who runs the internship program, explains how she helps students get started.
“I talk to students about their career interests and what they enjoy doing. Sometimes, it is easy to find an internship that is perfect for them, and other times, we have to find an internship that matches their future career goals.”
The internship is a four-week program that seniors are encouraged to take part in to gain real-life experience in a field they are passionate about. Participants are expected to complete 90 hours over four weeks and submit four reflection modules, one at the end of each week, reviewing what they worked on and learned.
The goal is to apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to a real-world setting. Students not only explore their potential careers or hobbies but also build self-advocacy and self-determination skills, learn to collaborate with professionals, and strengthen their resumes. The experience also helps students decide whether or not a particular career is the right fit for them.
“In the past years, I have had multiple students be asked to stay with the company, and they have become employees. Former graduates have also reached out and let me know how much the internship prepared them for their future,” Cacioppo states.
Former Foran student Mackenzie Posey, class of 2024, completed her internship at Trinity Point Wealth Management in Milford. She now studies at Bentley University, known for its business program.
“My internship at Trinity Point was extremely helpful for skills I use today because it was a hands-on experience in the ‘real world.’ Internships are a large focus at Bentley so this was a great starting point for me to learn more about being in the workplace as an intern.”
Students are responsible for meeting deadlines, committing to their scheduled hours, submitting weekly reflections, and giving a presentation at the end of their internship to receive full credit. They also complete four classroom modules covering networking, interviewing, resume writing, and follow-up letters.
Senior Alyssa Joye found her internship at Big Smiles Dentistry in Milford through a family friend. She hopes to develop skills related to sterilization procedures and patient interactions.
“I think being able to have an internship in high school is very valuable to help grow contacts and resumes, and a great experience to start and get a feel for what it is like to have a job in your field.”
For this year’s seniors, internships begin May 5 and end right before finals. According to Cacioppo, there are 145 potential students doing internships, though some have not confirmed yet. Cacioppo thinks their time away from Foran will be productive and useful. “Sometimes the best thing students learn is what they don’t like versus what they enjoy. They make connections that can help them in the future with a job,” she said.
