Overview: A main component of education at Confluence High is the LTI (Learning through Interests) internship program. In internships with an expert mentor in a field of the student’s interest, students complete an authentic project that benefits both the student and the mentor’s worksite. These projects are a key part of deepening student learning and academic growth. Internships provide students with multiple opportunities to explore fields of interest, interact professionally with adults in a variety of areas, and complete real-world projects that develop their academic skills.

Internship Search: Students, parents, and Confluence staff work together to secure internships for students based on each student’s interest area. Through the search process, students develop networking and communication skills, self-advocacy and initiative. Students are encouraged to stretch outside of their comfort zone and immerse themselves in the adult world. 

Student Preparation: All incoming Confluence students participate in an multi-week LTI preparation process, which includes: 

• Interest inventory

• Personality research

• Career research

• Community mapping (businesses and additional resources)

• Resume and cover letter building

• Mock interviews

• Networking and professional etiquette workshops 

• Phone and email scripts

• Informational interviews with professionals in the field

Mentor Time Commitment: During the internship search process, a prospective intern will schedule an introductory informational interview which lasts about a half hour. If the intern and mentor wish to continue the process, the intern will schedule a longer visit for a job shadow experience. Once the placement is agreed upon, the intern will take part in his/her internship on Tuesday and Thursdays for 4-6 hours each day, lasting 8-12 weeks, and longer if appropriate. During the internship placement, mentors are responsible for supervising their intern on Tuesdays and Thursdays, while being supported by the student’s adviser and internship coordinator.

What do our mentors think?