When young adults emerge at college graduation from almost two decades of schooling, during which each step to take is clearly marked, they now encounter the complicated task of applying for jobs. Yet, very often one’s college major does not necessarily lead a student to a career. Experiencing an internship, especially in a difficult economy, can make career choice clearer and provide networking contacts for years to come. College graduates rely on our expertise gleaned from many years of working with students, businesses and a multitude of organizations.

 

Jennifer Fox, an Ivy League grad, is participating in a government   internship through our program:

“As a graduated English major, I was unsure what career path would be best suited to my skills. After meeting with Dr. Jabbawy and discussing my strengths and interests, it became clear to me that I wanted to pursue a study of law.  Although I had considered this at length before, my lack of lack of relevant experience in the field made me equivocal. Although I had successfully taken the LSATS, I did not have the first-hand experience or the "fire" I needed to fully understand why I wanted to attend law school, let alone write a compelling essay that I believed in. Dr. Jabbawy established a legislative intern position at the MA State House that meshed my interests in the legislative process with my passion for writing. Currently, I enjoy attending hearings and briefings. I especially appreciate the fact that I am responsible for reporting my findings and discussing the particulars of cases with other informed individuals.  I also enjoy writing assignments such as newsletters and op-ed pieces and the collaborative process of writing them. What I have gleaned about the legislative process and working with others in this environment has been invaluable. This experience has undoubtedly provided me with the confidence I need to take the next stride forward in pursuing my dream of studying and practicing law.”

Barbara Fox, Jennifer’s Mom:

“Jen graduated with a BA in English from a top liberal arts college, and as such was educated to do anything and nothing, at the same time.  She  felt thrown into an unfamiliar world that her years of academia did not prepare her for.  Given the difficult job climate, and her limited job experiences, Jen needed help getting started. She met with Dr. Jabbawy where they discussed her interests, and what she might do to gain experience in an area that interested her.  Dr. Jabbawy was able to hone in on Jen’s interest in law, and established an internship where she could use her English skills in an interesting environment, in the office of a state legislator.   Dr. Jabbawy had placed interns in this office before, and knew it could open up a world that might nourish Jen's fledgling interest.  Given this experience, Jen has gained confidence and knowledge that law is any area that interests her, and is now considering applying to law schools. Dr. Jabbawy has worked with young adults for many years, and is sympathetic and extremely knowledgeable in helping young people get a start in their adult lives.”

THE PROCESS

Counseling Meeting and Goal Setting

Through supportive, informal conversation, either in person or on the phone, Dr. Jabbawy learns about the student’s college major and career goals and discusses internship possibilities. Young adults often don’t realize the workplace options that relate to a specific career. A government major might start to build his resume with an internship in the civil rights division of a state agency. A communications major might enjoy interning at a green technology company, conducting research and writing for the company blog. An art major would benefit from an internship in a myriad of settings, everything from set design and arts non-profit to film production.