Externships

Externships are a major part of senior year—at least for most seniors at Leonia High School.
Externships allow students to work during school hours on Fridays to gain experience in the working world. These programs prepare students for adulthood as they face important choices like college, work, or trade school. This opportunity can be a game changer for students shaping their future.

Externships are open to all seniors at Leonia High School. They are usually unpaid and last around 5–6 months. Most involve shadowing professionals, helping with small tasks, and observing workplace operations. Whether you’re spending your externship in a hospital or at a law firm, the experience gives students a firsthand look at potential career paths.

One of the major benefits of participating in an externship is the opportunity to explore future career options. Most high school students base their career decisions on limited information. However, an externship can provide a realistic view of a job’s day-to-day responsibilities, work environment, and the skills required. This can either confirm or reshape a student’s interest in a particular field.

Externships also help students build connections with professionals. By meeting people in the field, seniors at Leonia High School gain access to mentors who can offer guidance, write references, and possibly even present future job opportunities. These experiences also boost confidence, communication and social skills, and understanding of workplace expectations and rules.

Moreover, externships can enhance a student’s college or job application. Universities and employers are impressed by students who take advantage of opportunities to learn outside the classroom. An externship, if chosen wisely, can demonstrate dedication, a proactive attitude, and a commitment to career development.

To find an externship, students should start by talking to their school counselors, teachers, or parents/guardians. Leonia High School has partnered with multiple local—and even non-local—businesses willing to host students. Another great way to find an externship is by reaching out to friends or community members who work in fields of interest.

Externships offer high school seniors a valuable opportunity to get a glimpse into the working world. They allow students to explore careers, make meaningful connections, and gain experience that can set them apart from others who choose not to participate. As seniors transition into adulthood, the externship experience can help ease anxieties about the future workplace.

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