Students at CSI are spending their summer working with children both inside and outside the classroom. Instead of focusing on building their resumes, many are taking jobs that involve direct work with kids.
John Kesaris, Senior Career Manager at CSI’s Center for Career and Professional Development, explained, “In education, internships are less common. Students mostly find part-time roles.”
Research from the University of Pittsburgh shows that work experience helps students connect their education with professional skills. These opportunities focus on five main areas: developing skills and personal growth, improving social and communication abilities, understanding work environments, influencing future career choices, and building confidence and independence.
Thomas LaRose, a sophomore education major, said, “I’m either going to work at the Y as a counselor for kids or give private guitar lessons.”
Most CSI students surveyed already have summer jobs planned, especially those studying education. Many of these jobs involve working with children.
These jobs vary widely. Some students run day camps, others work as aides for autistic children, some teach summer school, and others dress up as fairy tale characters or superheroes for children’s parties. Education majors find many ways to earn money while working with kids.
According to CSI’s Center for Career and Professional Development, only a few internships are available in education. These are mainly in special education and working with autistic children.
Internship programs have changed over the last ten years. After the COVID-19 pandemic, many employers canceled internships. Others moved their programs online.
Despite these changes, internships remain valuable through 2025. Before the pandemic, about 50% to 60% of students had internships. Internships usually last around four and a half months. Many students report high satisfaction, with 36.4% saying they are extremely satisfied.
However, many CSI students cannot afford to give up paid jobs for unpaid internships. Well-paid, high-quality internships are still rare. Internships are important because they help students make career connections and build networks. Often, students receive full-time job offers from their internship employers after successful placements. Kesaris notes that more internships are now available to CSI students than in previous years.
Amara Cordero, a senior education major graduating this May, shared her experience. “I’m probably working in summer school. I know I’ll regret it. It’s hard to work with special needs kids when it’s hot. I love them, but sometimes it’s tough to go to work and face challenges.”
Outside of education, internships are available in many business fields. There are also many opportunities in graphic design. Internships in software, cybersecurity, and internet-related fields are steadily increasing.
Kesaris believes that CUNY students who complete internships gain an advantage when entering the job market. They develop important skills like teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.
He said, “NYU students have the name recognition. CUNY students have the drive to succeed.”
