Internships paving the way for scholars

At the foundation, we believe internships are a crucial step in preparing the businessmen and women of tomorrow for workplace success. That’s why each of our Earl Woods Scholars receive real-life work experience through internships related to their interests and future careers. And it’s here that they gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen professions. Take a look at a few highlights from 2015. 

2015 internship statistics:

• Scholars have taken part in more than 200 internships since the program launched in 2007.
• Scholars worked an average of 125 hours during the summer of 2015.
• 91 percent of scholars felt they were better equipped for the workforce after their internship.
• 91 percent of scholars reported that their internship was stimulating and challenging.

This year we launched a special workshop on internship etiquette, helping scholars prepare for the unique environments and expectations of the workplace. They learned proper workplace habits, what to wear and tips on how to best succeed in their new opportunities. Scholars were given the choice to intern in their preferred fields, from sports to medicine to finance, bringing them one important step closer to achieving their dreams.

Minh Nguyen, who is now in his fourth year at UCLA, interned with the American Academy of Pediatrics and had an unforgettable experience.

“I discovered my interest in health administration from this internship,” Nguyen said. “I have come to appreciate and respect every member of the health field by observing how the staff members at the American Academy of Pediatrics work to help physicians and other health professionals stay up to date with new medical discoveries.” 

Students had similar revelations while interning at organizations like RBC Wealth Management, Red Sox Foundation, the City of Anaheim and Wells Fargo, to name a few. 

Life-changing. That is the best way to describe the effect these internships have on the futures of our brilliant scholars. And we can’t wait to see what effect these scholars will have on the world as they move out into the workforce! 

If you or your company is interested in providing career-building opportunities for an Earl Woods Scholar, please visit the Earl Woods Scholarship Program section.