Student Life
Junior Internship Program
Real-World Experience for the Real World Ahead
At Lacordaire, we believe that preparing students for college involves more than strong academics and extracurricular involvement. It means helping them discover who they are and envision who they want to become. Our Junior Internship Program is a key part of that process.
Each February, Lacordaire juniors step outside the classroom and into the professional world for a transformative, four-day internship experience. From law firms to hospitals, classrooms to commercial kitchens, our students have shadowed professionals in a wide range of industries, gaining firsthand insight into the careers they may one day pursue.
Why Intern in High School?
Nationally, many college students switch majors in their junior or senior years, often because they never fully understood what their chosen path would involve. At Lacordaire, we aim to change that. Our Junior Internship Program gives students the chance to:
- Explore career options early
- Experience a typical day in a professional setting
- Gain clarity before choosing a college major
- Make valuable connections in the community
- Build confidence and professionalism
How It Works
For one week in February, all juniors will report to a professional workplace of their choice, working side by side with a mentor for at least six hours per day. Students are expected to:
- Dress and behave professionally
- Respect workplace rules and privacy policies
- Keep a daily journal of their experiences
- Present what they’ve learned to the school community
This immersive program is graded as part of the Religion curriculum and culminates in a student-led reflection assembly.
Samantha R. '26, Interned with Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
I was given different flow charts depicting how documents passed through banks, importers, and exporters...I spent my whole day on research and expanding my knowledge of trade finance—how money moves across the world.
Alumni and Community Connections
Many of our internship placements come from our vibrant network of alumni, parents, and friends of the Academy. These relationships are key to helping students find placements that match their interests and often lead to ongoing mentorship beyond the week itself.
Students are responsible for identifying and securing their placements, with support and outreach from the school. We provide resources, templates, and networking opportunities to help each student connect with a professional in her area of interest.
The Next Step
The Junior Internship Program is more than a college resume booster: it’s a pivotal step in helping our students connect education with purpose. As they explore potential careers, our young women gain the confidence and clarity they need to take the next step toward college and beyond.
Our Mission
Empowering students to become confident decision makers and responsible leaders in a community of belonging, rooted in the Catholic Dominican tradition
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