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STAMFORD, Conn. Monday is a big day for 30 Stamford teens. Thats the day they join the Stamford workforce as part of the Mayors Youth Employment Program. And they wont be alone on their journey--each will have a mentor helping along the way.
Its very rare to get interns this young, said Robin Mattice of Capital Financial Management. Usually, the company hires summer workers from local colleges, not high schools.
Gaining this kind of work experience before college is invaluable for the students, said Mattice, because it gives them a headstart on their peers. Hiriam Holloway, who will intern at Capital Financial Management, will do everything an entry-level accountant would do over the next five weeks, his mentor said.
Were hoping he sees how a small accountant firm operates, Mattice said.
The interns are not the only winners. The mentoring organizations benefit as well since several interns will work at nonprofits like the Ballet School of Stamford that need the help.
Its a great way for people to learn and work, and its not coming out of our budget, said Marti Etter, executive director of the Ballet School of Stamford.
Etter said the intern will do a little bit of everything, including working the reception desk, organizing costumes and even helping with the childrens classes.
The mentoring businesses will treat the students like any other starting employee, said Cathy Bertasso of Stamfords Youth Services Bureau. Youth Services has already treated the students like adults, making them apply and interview before getting hired into the program.
What was your first job? How did you like it? Share your memories and experiences below or e-mail them to reporter Anthony Buzzeo at tbuzzeo@TheDailyStamford.com.
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