Frequently Asked Questions
Do all students participate in the work-study internship?
No, currently only rising juniors and seniors can participate in the internship program.
What are the advantages of a work-study internship for students?
Through work-study internships, students acquire real-world contacts, experience, and skills which will help them throughout college and beyond.
Does the internship schedule interfere with a student’s academic studies?
Schedules are structured so students intern one day each week with access to tutors during and after school as well as most Saturday mornings. The Student Success Center is open to all Kolbe students to ensure they successfully complete a full class schedule and fulfill all college preparatory high school requirements.
Will students get to choose where they intern?
Students are evaluated and will be considered for internship positions based upon their particular interests and skills, however, we cannot guarantee placement in a particular field.
What kind of responsibilities will students perform?
Most students shadow and perform entry-level tasks with an opportunity for advancement. Responsibilities differ on a partner-by-partner basis. Students are expected to meet or exceed the level of professionalism and dedication demanded of their adult colleagues at their internship site.
How are students prepared for their internship position?
All student interns attend a summer training program before their first internship assignment. Students also receive performance reviews, feedback and training from Mentors and Marian staff throughout the school year.
Training includes topics such as:
Basic computer skills
General accounting principles
Telephone and email communication
Filing and document processing
Office etiquette
Positive first impressions
Accountability and time management
Cultural awareness and diversity in a professional environment
Confidentiality
Internship safety procedures
Who supervises students while at their internship site?
An on-site supervisor will guide and support students. Marian staff will coordinate with the on-site supervisor to provide additional training, instruction and care students may need to succeed. Any necessary disciplinary actions are conducted by Marian staff.
Can parents directly contact their child’s internship Mentor?
All communications must go through Marian or Kolbe Cathedral staff.
How do students get to their internship site?
Students utilize public transportation (bus and/or train) to arrive at their internship site. Marian staff perform practice transportation runs with students to ensure they feel comfortable navigating their route independently. Students who wish to secure private transportation can do so at their own cost and only after approval by Marian staff.
When do students intern?
Students intern one day each week during the hours of 9:00 am. and 2:00 pm. Our program runs concurrently with Kolbe Cathedral’s academic school year.
What if a student is sick or misses an internship day?
In the case when a student misses an internship day due to illness, the student will be required to make up their internship day. No medical appointments or vacations should be scheduled on internship days. Multiple tardiness or absences will result in removal from the internship program.
Is there a dress code?
Students are held to strict dress code standards. Unless otherwise instructed by their mentor, all students are required to wear their school uniform to their internship site.