Mahopac High School recently gave a warm send-off to 65 seniors participating in the Wise Individualized Senior Experience (WISE) program as they prepared to begin semesterlong internships. The program is designed to provide students with authentic work experiences while building responsibility, commitment and career readiness.
Through WISE, students can pursue internships in fields they may wish to study or enter after graduation. During the first semester, students complete coursework in English and social sciences. In the second semester, they participate in internships while working with a mentor who monitors their progress and supports their professional growth.
During the send-off event, WISE Project Coordinator Jeanette Coniglio encouraged students to dress professionally and familiarize themselves with their new work environments.
“The WISE program is valuable because students sometimes discover what they do and don’t want to do with their careers,” Coniglio said. “This year, WISE students have secured internships in nursing, education, business, law enforcement, physical therapy and real estate.”
Following a celebratory lunch, students gathered for the send-off program, where Coniglio encouraged them to represent Mahopac Central School District with pride and professionalism. High School Principal Patrick Keevins reminded the students of the importance of first impressions, congratulated the seniors and wished all of them good luck. Superintendent of Schools Frank Miele added that whether or not the students love what they are doing this semester, they will learn from the experience and should have no regrets.
After listening to the administrators, students broke into smaller groups to meet with their WISE mentors. Mentors, teachers or certified members of the Mahopac High School faculty serve as guides throughout the experience. Students will meet with their mentors weekly to discuss their projects and prepare for oral presentations, which will be delivered to a committee of parents, teachers and students in late May or early June.
