Internships
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What is an Internship?
An internship is a career preparation activity in which students are placed at a work site for a defined period of time to participate in and observe work firsthand within a given industry. Unlike work experience, internships often allow students to rotate through a number of departments and/or job functions. Internships provide the student with an opportunity to “test-drive” career possibilities, to gain experience in the field they are interested in pursuing, determine if they have an interest in a particular career, create a network of contacts, and gain school credit. An internship is an excellent way to determine if the industry and the profession is the best career option to follow before investing a lot of time and money in training and education. Internships are an honors CTE elective class and correspond with the school calendar. Interested students should work with the Internship Coordinator and their Counselor to begin the application process at least one semester before they are interested in interning. Credit and grades are assigned after the student completes all requirements and submits all work.
Who can do an internship?
Internship is for 11th and 12th grade students by application. A student's academic standing, attendance, career interest, and incident history will be considered when applying for an internship. It is the responsibility of the student to find an internship host. Although I can help - the process of finding an internship host is important for students to learn to network and practice soft skills.
Internship Site Requirements:
- Your internship site supervisor (Business Sponsor) cannot be a family member.
- Your internship site cannot be at Apex High School unless pre-approved by Ms. O’Brien.
- You are responsible for arranging your own transportation to and from your internship site. Ms. O’Brien can assist with navigating public transportation if needed.
What are the requirements for the internship course?
You will be enrolled in a Canvas course where you will complete assignments. These include:
- Midpoint and Final Evaluation
- 120 hours of on the job experience
- Journal entries
- Timesheet
- 2 honors level enhancement activities
- Portfolio
- A presentation at the end of the semester summarizing your experience
Application:
- Apex High Internship Application
- The Internship Application is required to enroll in the course, as well as an Internship pre-conference. You may fill out an application prior to having an internship placement. Once you have an internship site, complete the Internship Placement Agreement. This is due the first day of class for the semester.
- The Internship Application and Internship Placement Agreement are due September 8th for Fall 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where Should I Look for an Internship?
- Use your connections! Ask family members, neighbors, local businesses, and organizations you’re involved with.
- Contact local businesses to see if they are open to hosting a student intern.
- Tip: Visit businesses in person—dress professionally and be prepared!
- Some businesses may require an interview, so start your search early to meet deadlines.
- Have a completed resume to provide when inquiring about internships.
- Helpful Resources:
- Apex Chamber of Commerce
- Cary Chamber of Commerce
- Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce (look at the business directory)
- Better Business Bureau (search for companies in the Raleigh-Durham area)
- NCDOT Internship Program
How Do I Ask a Business for an Internship?
- Provide businesses with the Apex High Internship Guide for Businesses, which outlines their responsibilities as an internship supervisor.
- Start with Job Shadowing:
- Ask if you can shadow a professional for part of a day.
- This allows businesses to get to know you and increases the likelihood of securing an internship.
- Always send a thank-you note after job shadowing to maintain a professional relationship.
- Visit Businesses in Person:
- Dress appropriately—business casual is recommended (avoid ripped jeans and t-shirts).
- Make a great first impression—smile, give a firm handshake, and make eye contact.
- Bring a resume—this shows professionalism and readiness for the workforce.
- Emailing a Business: If visiting in person isn’t possible or appropriate, send a professional email. Example Email Template.
Can I intern in a medical office?
- Yes, students may intern in medical offices. Provide them with the Health Care Internships for Apex High School Students for details on appropriate tasks for high school interns.
Does WCPSS Provide Liability Insurance?
- Yes, Ms. O’Brien can provide an insurance certificate of liability for the business if needed.