CTE Internship Program Helps Seniors Explore Career Pathways
Camille White, Communications Specialist
Oxford, Mississippi — Oxford High School seniors are gaining hands-on experience through the Career and Technical Education (CTE) internship program, giving students the opportunity to explore career interests in real-world settings.
Through the program, students may earn academic credit through work-based learning or choose to intern without credit, based on their individual goals, needs, and interests. Internships are designed to support college and career readiness by helping students explore potential career paths, gain experience, and better understand which fields may—or may not—be of interest to them in the future.
Student interns are placed with local businesses and community partners throughout the city in a variety of fields, including healthcare, engineering, public service, and other industries aligned with CTE pathways. These experiences allow students to learn and grow as both students and emerging professionals.
The impact of the CTE internship program is best seen through the experiences of the students participating in it. Below, two Oxford High School seniors share their perspectives through a brief Q&A about their internship experiences.
Q & A with OHS Senior Bradley Beard:
Where did you intern?
Howorth & Associates Architects.
What made you interested in participating in an internship through CTE?
My interest stemmed from my previous summer jobs in construction. I enjoyed that work and became curious about the more technical and design focused side of the field, which led me to apply through CTE and interview [for the internship].
What did a typical day as a student intern look like for you?
Most days involved desk related work and helping organize the office, but I also had opportunities to visit job sites. During site visits, we met with clients and contractors, photographed the space, took measurements, and sketched buildings to better understand the project. [I also completed] a 40-hour AutoCAD course, which resulted in an AutoCAD certification and valuable technical skills.
What skills or experiences did you gain through your internship?
I gained valuable communication skills, a better understanding of how architects collaborate with construction professionals, and hands-on experience using AutoCAD. I also developed a stronger understanding of how architectural projects are planned and executed.
How did this internship help you think about your future plans after high school?
While I do not plan to pursue architecture specifically, the internship helped solidify my interest in engineering. It showed me that I enjoy working on a wide variety of projects rather than focusing on a single type, such as residential homes.
What would you tell another student who is considering participating in a CTE internship?
I would highly recommend it. The experience provides real world exposure, helps you get to know what a job really entails behind the job description as well as helps solidify future career interests, it allows students to develop practical skills that are difficult to gain in a classroom setting.
Q & A with OHS Senior Lily Levy
Where did you intern?
Oxford, MS City Courts.
What made you interested in participating in an internship through CTE?
I learned about the CTE internship opportunity through my teachers and saw it as a great way to explore my interests while gaining real world experience. I wanted to better understand my strengths and areas for growth before entering college.
What did a typical day as a student intern look like for you?
I attended my internship from 12:30 to 5:00 every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, where I assisted clerks, organized and entered documents, managed tickets, assisted prosecutors, and shadowed my coworkers. On Wednesdays, I also observed court proceedings and helped wherever needed.
What skills or experiences did you gain through your internship?
This internship strengthened my analytical thinking, organization, and problem solving skills while teaching me the importance of asking questions and collaborating with numerous people who have different careers and experiences. I also learned how to take initiative and show leadership by recognizing tasks that needed to be done.
How did this internship help you think about your future plans after high school?
The experience exposed me to both the aspects of law and the court system that I enjoy and those I do not, helping me better define my academic and career interests. It allowed me to explore a potential career path earlier than I otherwise would have.
What would you tell another student who is considering participating in a CTE internship?
I would absolutely encourage students to participate in a CTE internship, regardless of how much experience they think they have. Any hands-on opportunity helps you grow, learn more about yourself, and better prepare for a more passionate and purposeful future.
We are so thankful for the ongoing support of our community partners who play a vital role in providing meaningful internship opportunities for our students. Local businesses interested in partnering with Oxford High School’s CTE internship program are encouraged to contact the department at 662-234-3541 or by emailing Dr. Duncan Gray at dmgray@oxfordsd.org or Mary Martha Crowe at mcrowe@oxfordsd.org.
Additionally, students interested in CTE internship opportunities can speak with Mary Martha Crowe during rising senior scheduling or by contacting her directly at mcrowe@oxfordsd.org with questions.
- CTE
- OHS