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Enrichment opportunities are high impact experiences that let you explore interests outside of class in real world situations. In addition to connecting you with your community and learning more about your interests, colleges value students who have sought out experiences beyond their daily classroom.
We're lucky to live in Chicago where there is an abundance of free (or paid) opportunities! There's no one right way to get involved. Colleges don't value volunteering over an internship at a hospital. Find something that is true to you and stick with it.
Research programs early on. Most summer programs have application deadlines in January or February.
New Opportunities Posted Here Often! *click to expand*
New Opportunities Posted Here Often! *click to expand*
Chicago Architecture Center: Teen Ambassadors - due August 21, you wil be paid $500
Senn Clubs & Athletics
Senn offers a wide variety of clubs and athletics. From book club to knitting club, badminton to cartoon club, there's something for everyone!
You can usually join clubs throughout the year. Sports run in fall, winter, and spring seasons. They generally start recruiting a month or so before the season starts.
External Programs
Looking for something beyond Senn? Check out our list of external programs. There are both local and residential programs. Some are free, some charge a fee, and some will pay YOU.
From FreshLens Photography to the National Black Accoutnant Program at Univ of Ill - Urbana Champaign, Senn students have access to high quality experiences in a range of fields.
A master list of opportunities is compiled here. The specific deadlines may be out of date, so always double check on the website!
Google Classroom
Each grade level has a Class of 202X google classroom page. This is where counselors post the counseling curriculum, college application resources, and updates about any opportunities!
Many students have had luck scrolling the google classroom to look for new opportunities. Don't think you're in the Google Classroom for your grade level? Message Ms. Rochelle to add you at jcrochelle@cps.edu
SchooLinks
The district maintains an ongoing list of opportunities on SchooLinks. They can include opportunities outside of Illinois, so make sure to use the filter function when searching!
To search opportunities on SchooLinks, go to "Engage" on the left hand side, and then "Opportunity Board"
To learn more about an opportunity, click the blue arrow in the top right of the listing to go to the webpage. You can also click the heart to favorite opportunities and return to them later.
Opportunity Expo
Opportunity Expo
Every winter, the Opportunity Expo is a chance for sophomores and juniors to learn about a variety of external programs accepting applications for the summer. A guide to the fair is provided in advance so students can narrow in on programs that they'd like to speak with.
After attending the expo, the next important step is actually applying to a program!! Counselors are happy to help with applications to enrichment programs.
After School Matters
After School Matters
One of the most popular enrichment programs is After School Matters. It offers paid apprenticeships and internships in art, STEM, sports, and communications. Programs run during the Fall, Spring, and Summer terms across the city. Eligible students receive a one time stipend upon completion of the program.
Applications open seasonally on the After School Matters website. Apply early, because popular locations can fill up fast!
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