Job Shadows & Internships

Workplace Learning Connection, in conjunction with Kirkwood Community College, organizes and arranges job shadows & internships for students in Cedar Rapids and surrounding communities. They have over 700 businesses that they work with to provide these opportunities for students. 

Job shadows & internships are invaluable in helping students decide what they would like to do in the future. Even if it turns out that it is something they don't enjoy, it is a step in the right direction.

A job shadow is an opportunity to get a look at what a certain profession encompasses. Applications will be open 3 times during the year. Junior & Senior students are able to participate each year. A job shadow usually lasts 2-4 hours during the school day. Job Shadows may be in-person or virtual. For in-person job shadows, the student must provide their own transportation. These are excused absences for students. Many job shadows are set up as career exploration days and you get a glimpse of several jobs within a career field. Career-specific job shadows will only be offered during the fall.

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The internship program is designed to give students a more in-depth and hands-on approach by getting directly involved in a career. Internships require a 45 or 90 hour commitment (5-hours or 10-hours/week respectively) but students do get high school credit for this program.  An application and interview process are required for placement. Students that have completed a job shadow, have a greater chance to be placed as it shows they have already done some career exploration. Juniors & Seniors may apply for internships during the year (see adjacent deadlines). Sophomores may apply for summer internships after their sophomore year.

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