BCCC Youth Workforce Program Matches Truman Students with Mentors

It’s never too early for an internship to enhance resumes or a mentor to provide advice. Rising high school seniors gained wisdom and explored their career options through Bucks Youth Workforce Program’s High School Summer Mentorship Program.

Of the seven students in this year’s program, four were Truman High School students and three were Conwell-Egan. In addition to Bristol Township and Conwell-Egan, the program is open to 12th grade students from Quakertown, Centennial, Bristol Borough, Morrisville, Bensalem and Pennridge School Districts, and also Upper Bucks County Technical School.

The four-week mentorship program began in July in various departments at Bucks County Community College. Two students worked in the physical plant department, one focused on janitorial work and another focused on grounds and landscaping. Students interned in the executive assistant to the provost’s office, the library, the athletic department, public safety and also the foundations department, which deals with scholarships, fundraising and alumni relations.

"Our mentors are Bucks County Community College professionals who guide the high schools students through their first professional work experience, teaching them the employability skills that are critical for their future success,” said In-School Youth Program Coordinator Christine Harvie. “They are able to get a glimpse at how the different departments at the College are all critical in helping the campus operate efficiently.”

The semester course during the school year focuses on career assessments, hands-on skills training, OSHA General Industry Training, speakers, field trips and industry tours. Made possible through Bucks County Workforce Development funds, this was the third year Truman students participated in the program, which began in 2016.

Students who were interested in work experience were invited to the Mentorship Program’s information session by Truman Transition Coordinator and Special Education Teacher Mae Fernandez. She looked for students who were reliable in attendance and good behavior that would represent the District well. Students received applications to apply and were accepted into the program on a first come, first served basis with the first four Truman students accepted.

The program matches students the best they can to a department and mentor that best aligns with the students’ career interests.

“The mentors share their personal career pathways and show the interns that there are many routes to get to the career they want,” said Harvie. “It starts with exploring multiple careers, opening their eyes to possibilities they may never have dreamed existed for them. Partnering with our local high schools for this program allows us to help build the confidence and self-sufficiency of the youth in our community. These are the invaluable takeaways of the Summer Mentorship Program at Bucks County Community College."

Even if the department does not exactly match what a student is looking for in a career, there is valuable information to be gained. Students learn about the employment process from hiring to interviews, and no matter what career path, communication is vital. Students refine their communication skills such as how to introduce themselves and speak with adults.

At the end of the program, Fernandez received evaluations on each Truman student to help guide them through their senior year and discover the right career choices for them.

The In-School Youth grant is funded by Bucks County Workforce Development Board and pays for student wages, lunches and transportation.