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UAlbany Interns Help Digital Youth Succeed
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Cat Provost |
Catherine (Cat) Provost said it best: "The possibilities for the future of the Digital Youth Program are limitless." Provost, a University at Albany alumna who graduated last month, was among 10 undergraduates who interned at nine area high schools this past semester to help develop job skills among high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Provost interned twice a week at Troy High School in the after-school program. Other area schools involved include Bishop Maginn, Albany, and Lansingburgh high schools. The University interns earn $10 an hour through the program offered by the NY Wired for Education Digital Youth 2005 Certification Program. The interns helped high school students complete an online curriculum in computer and professional skills, which prepared them for entry-level office jobs requiring computer and phone skills.
Joanne Picard, director of guidance at Bishop Maginn High School, said, "We have worked with the [Digital Youth] program for two years, and we are very enthusiastic. This is a winning program for all concerned. The kids benefit, the schools benefit, and the businesses benefit. We are pleased to be involved in such a successful program."
 | | | Eighty-eight high school students graduated from the program at a ceremony May 25 in the Recreation and Convocation Center's Hall of Fame Room. (Click for larger image.) | |
Eighty-eight high school students graduated from the program at a ceremony May 25 in the Recreation and Convocation Center's Hall of Fame Room. Six of the 10 UAlbany interns returned to honor their students in person. "Their attendance was a testament to the relationship the college interns developed with the high school students � one of understanding, growth, support, and encouragement," said Provost. "I personally believe it was a wonderful example of how much the University really cares for the surrounding Capital Region community, of which it is a part."
Speakers at the ceremony included: UAlbany's President, Kermit L. Hall; Brian Lee, CEO of NY Wired for Education; Albany County Executive, Michael Breslin; Rensselaer County Executive, Kathleen Jimino; and the Times Union Marketing Director, Bob Provost (Cat's father). "The speakers really clarified for the ceremony guests and honorees just how much work went into the program, and the incredible opportunities the students will have as a result of their hard work," said Cat.
Brian Lee agreed and added: "The University at Albany interns have exceeded our expectations. Besides being bright, they have great attitudes and work hard. The high schools are thrilled with the quality of these interns."
Related Links:
NY Wired for Education Digital Youth Program
Career Development Center Internships Photo used in home page graphic provided by Catherine Provost. |
