SPHS Internship Program

Arts – Biomedical Science – Business – Computer Science – Engineering
“It’s A Brave Thing To Go and Chase the Thing You Want To Do.”
~Nat Paynter, Director of Water Programs, Charity: Water

Why should businesses consider offering internships to South Pasadena Unified students?

• The value of having highly skilled and motivated students as part of your workforce for a semester – or more
• The opportunity to bring new ideas and enthusiasm to your organization
• The assistance provided by the unpaid high school intern to your permanent staff
• The chance to share your knowledge with students

What does a quality student internship offer?

• An introduction to different parts of the organization
• An opportunity to practice critical thinking, communication, and problem solving skills
• Clearly defined responsibilities
• Projects that further a student’s professional development

How does it work?
For the students:

• Complete two job skills workshops prior to the internship
• Apply for the SPHS Internship program; fill out required paperwork
• Sign up for the zero period class through SPHS, worth five course credits
• Apply for the internship of interest to the student
• Complete 60 hours of work during a semester (Fall, Spring, or Summer)
• Learn as much as you can from career experts

For the employer:

• Create a job description for the internship position
• Sign a memo of understanding with the South Pasadena Unified School District
• Interview potential interns and select best candidate for the role
• Identify an internal coordinator for the intern
• Share company policies and procedures with intern
• Establish clear work hours; schedule and monitor hours
• Offer interns direction and feedback for improvement
• Communicate regularly with SPHS Career Internship Specialist
• Complete an internship evaluation

Now Is A Good Time To Start
For more information, contact Andrea Fox, Career Internship Specialist,
afox@spusd.net or 626-390-2730