We have had several students offered jobs through their parent mentor, although this is not an obligation or expectation. Internships during the winter intersession or over the summer are available. Students look at the internship as a way of earning money over the holiday, but more as an introduction to a workplace they may consider joining after graduation. Internships are extremely valuable in clarifying such career choices, allowing a student insight, flexibility and hands-on experience for a limited period, which may help them decide whether a particular field is right for them. January internships are over four weeks.
Some mentors offer summer internships, which are eight to ten weeks.
Parents can also provide accommodations for students who are interning in their area, but may not have the financial means to obtain their own housing. Having a room in a strange new city is of significant value to an intern. Thinking and Working Outside the Box is a pilot program that has been designed to introduce this concept to Bard students and encourage them to think about what they will do after College. Offered in workshop form, it will consist of a series of small group meetings with approximately twelve students per group. Four resource people from the business arena will rotate through the groups, meeting the students, making presentations, and answering questions.