PESA is excited to announce the commencement of their third summer high school internship program, with 18 student participants from all over LA County, ranging from Chatsworth to Long Beach. This program emphasizes education, engagement, and empowerment, aiming to equip interns with the requisite skills to excel in their future careers. By providing resources like mock interviews, resume-building workshops, and opportunities to learn office skills, PESA is committed to helping these students break barriers and achieve success.
"Through this internship, students can acquire skills that are often learned after graduating high school,” says Jesus Gonzalez, Assistant Director of Youth Services. “But by giving these students a head start, we are preparing them to be successful in any path that they choose to pursue upon graduation. Since many of these skills are learned in college, it is critical to bridge the gap for students who choose not to go to college, whether that be for financial reasons or other practical considerations.”
One of the internship program's key features is the opportunity for students to gain certification in Microsoft products, specifically Excel and Word. By obtaining these certifications, students significantly increase their chances of securing well-paying office jobs, providing them with a pathway to financial stability and the means to continue their educational endeavors. Many young adults face unique challenges when pursuing higher education. Often, they must navigate the pressures of immediate financial contribution to their families, which leads to difficult decisions and sacrifices that hinder their future prospects. However, the internship program's comprehensive training allows students to learn valuable tools so they can get a better paying job that will allow them to address their families’ financial needs without sacrificing their educational journey.
PESA’s Executive Director, Seymour Amster believes the, "completion of this program should be a life-changing event, allowing many to break the cycle of poverty.” This is what PESA does to level the playing field and provide equity. “We find ways to provide tools to BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) and those who come from under-resourced communities to compete on an equal level with the more privileged members of our community."
PESA's summer high school internship program is a transformative opportunity for diverse students and opens a pathway to higher-earning jobs and continued growth.
If you’d like to support PESA’s many social and educational initiatives, please contact us.
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