An unknown and unique experience is offered to students of BPHS that is often overlooked. This is the apprenticeship program offered through the Allegheny Intermediate Unit.
These apprenticeships are once or twice a month for a six or seven month period throughout the school year.
The students miss a day of school during the time of their apprenticeship to meet and work with professionals in their field of interest.
The program consists of projects and behind the scenes tours, among other things, in order for the student to get a feel for their career choice.
Each apprenticeship costs about $50, but there may be additional fees. Some of the programs have a lab fee.
In order to apply, the AIU puts out a short but important application. It has you state both your first and second choice of apprenticeships and follows with a couple brief questions.
The students then receive a letter in the mail telling them if they did or did not get accepted into the program.
Because the average student changes their major three to five times, the experience within the field provided by these apprenticeships helps a student to minimize the change of mind.
Students are able to start applying from freshman year on. They can participate in one apprenticeship per year. This allows for students to experience up to four different fields they find interesting.
The AIU offers a total of thirty-six different apprenticeships. They range from acting to nursing to marine biology.
For more information, go to the AIU’s website, or visit your counselor.
