With the local school districts returning to school, Doña Ana County concludes another year of its Student Enrichment Internship Program for high school students. The County has served as the facilitator of the internship program for four years, with funding from the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED), and in collaboration with local businesses, governments, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations.
Source: Doña Ana County
The County is responsible for all aspects of student hiring, orientation, payroll and the hiring of coordinators to serve as a liaison between businesses and interns, to ensure a supportive experience for all involved. Since its start, the internship program has seen incredible growth. In 2021, 520 students were placed in internships across the county. The following year, the number of interns increased to 850. In 2023, 1380 students were hired. This year, an impressive 1528 students were placed into valuable internship positions.
“The Student Enrichment Internship Program provides hands-on experience and professional development opportunities, equipping our interns with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their future careers, Commission Chair Christopher Schaljo-Hernandez said. “This investment in our young people contributes to the growth and sustainability of our local economy. By investing in our youth, we are investing in the future of Doña Ana County and its cities.”
“We are committed to empowering our community through access to quality services and spurring economic growth through career opportunities,” Interim County Manager Stephen Lopez said. “Thanks to NMPED, we are proud to offer the young people in our community these opportunities.”
Due to the popularity of the program, internship positions fill up quickly. Interested students and parents may stay tuned to future updates from the Student Enrichment Internship Program here.
