BACKGROUND

USNUNK NAVAIR

ADVICE FOR STUDENTS

Internships provide an excellent opportunity for students to learn about the type of work that is performed in an organization.  Further, it allows them to gain some real/ practical experience before going to college, which will help the student determine if this is the kind of work that they would like to perform upon graduation.  It is beneficial to the organization, because the organization has the opportunity to help the student grow and learn over a period of time, so that upon graduation, they are familiar with the organization and should be able to “hit the ground running".

The types of courses that would be helpful would be dependent upon the job that the individual was seeking. For those interested in pursuing a full time job in science and engineering, I would recommend taking as many science, math and computer science classes as possible. Certainly taking advanced classes such as calculus would be beneficial. For those interested in working in a business-related field, such as accounting, contracts or business financial management, I would recommend courses in those fields, such as accounting, data analysis, etc. I also would recommend statistics. Regardless of what the student ultimately would like to major in, I highly recommend strong writing and presentation skills.

Any work experience looks good on a resume, particularly at the high school level.  I also highly recommend participating in extra-curricular activities that are related to the field of interest.  For future engineers and scientists, the robotics club is a great way to begin career exploration.  For those interested in a business-related field, clubs such as Future Business Leaders of America, or other similar clubs would be helpful.  I wouldn’t limit myself to just those clubs related to the field of interest, though.  Stepping up as leader on the student council or any club will help to distinguish the resume.  As far as interviewing is concerned, ask a parent or teacher to help with a mock interview.  Remember to look the interviewer in the eye and have a firm handshake.

Students looking to work in the federal government should ensure that they study hard and participate in extra-curricular activities.  Remember, most jobs require the ability to hold a clearance, so it is important that a student’s behavior does not jeopardize their ability to gain future employment.