StM News

by Heather Wiltshire, LPC-S, NCC, Middle and Upper School Counselor

For seniors at St. Martin’s, the two weeks between the last day of class and graduation are filled with the time-honored tradition of Senior Internships. For more than 30 years, our graduating classes have taken part in this important and often life-changing experience. This program is a hallmark of St. Martin’s commitment to offering real-world learning experiences that empower students to take ownership of their future.

The Senior Internship Program was created by Dr. Bill Rosenbaum, who was the beloved Upper School Counselor and teacher for almost fifty years. His vision and purpose for the program were to give students the opportunity to:

• Explore, through first-hand observation and experience 
• Study and be exposed to many facets of the socio-economic life of the community, and especially of the industry in which the student interns
• Further develop their leadership qualities and habits of responsibility, analysis, and planning
• The program deepens the critical thinking and leadership abilities our students have honed at St. Martin’s, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world experience. 

During their internships, students turn in four blogs detailing their experiences and answering some of the following prompts: why I chose this internship, what I have learned about myself through this internship, some of the jobs I have been doing, what I have seen that has surprised me, why this internship is nothing like I expected, what has made me laugh, how I can improve my experience, my favorite/least favorite activity, my first impression, something I didn’t expect, feedback I’ve received, or what I’m learning about a future job. Through these reflections, students become not just interns, but self-aware learners, actively shaping how they grow from the experience.

Reading these blogs is one of my favorite tasks as a school counselor. The internship feedback is insightful, interesting, and sometimes funny. Students are usually surprised to realize how exhausted they are after working all day. They often comment on how difficult it is to accomplish their job and what it all takes to make it happen. It is valuable for them to see how much work goes on behind the scenes for different occupations. This kind of perspective builds humility and respect for others, key qualities we foster in Saints who are preparing to lead with compassion.

Another rewarding aspect of the internships is seeing the photos students share alongside their blog reflections. There’s something powerful about watching them step into these professional roles, whether they’re sitting at desks, meeting with lawyers and judges, teaching first graders, disassembling a Buick dashboard, checking voltage on a control panel, or learning to take blood pressure in a hospital setting. These snapshots capture more than just activity, they reveal pride, purpose, and a new kind of confidence. In these moments, students aren’t just imagining their futures; they’re living them as capable, curious young adults ready to pursue work that truly matters.

Perhaps the most meaningful outcome of the internship experience is when students gain clarity, either by confirming a career path or realizing that their dream job may not be the right fit after all. It’s a kind of insight most adults wish they had at that age. True to St. Martin’s mission, these internships don’t just prepare students for college, but help them prepare for life. They offer a glimpse into the real world and guide students toward careers that align with their values, strengths, and aspirations. More than anything, they help students begin charting a course toward purpose, not just a paycheck.

Here are some reflections from the Class of 2025: 

• “It’s changed my perspective on how I want to go about my next 4 years in college.”
• “I chose this internship because I love children and have an interest in therapy and psychology. Through this internship, I have confirmed the fact that I want to work with children specifically. I have been having an amazing experience learning about physical, occupational, and speech therapy. I originally wanted to be a mental health therapist, but this internship has made me reconsider. I feel very lucky to get this opportunity to learn more and get exposure to possible career paths for me.”
• “I am so grateful for this job internship and experience!”
• “One of the biggest things I have learned about myself through this internship is that I like talking to people more than I thought I would. I thought I would try to keep the speaking to a minimum, but the topics we are working on are very interesting, so I’ve found myself speaking more than usual.”
• “I think, although I enjoy this line of work, it is not exactly what I want. I do not think that I would be as fulfilled as I would like to be if I were to pursue this line of work. It has made me realize that nursing is definitely what I want to pursue, and I really want to work in a hospital setting.” 

At St. Martin’s, we prepare our graduates not just for college, but for life, ensuring they are ready to explore boldly and lead with integrity. The Senior Internship Program gives them a chance to step out into the real world, learn more about who they are, and start figuring out what kind of life they want to build. It’s one of the many ways we help them grow into curious, capable, and grounded young adults.