Intern Readiness Certificate Program

The National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS) is proud to offer students access to the Intern Readiness Certificate Program (IRCP) to help prepare them for a successful transition to the professional world. 

The Intern Readiness Certificate Program was created to cultivate the needs and goals of young professionals. According to the NSHSS 2022 Career Interest Survey, 82% of Gen-Z respondents expect to engage in an internship to develop their skills. However, many students struggle to seamlessly transition into their roles in the workforce due to a lack of experience in personal and professional development. IRCP was created to provide students with a toolkit of skills vital to success.

Students have the opportunity to engage in a 10-module program created with the needs of both students and employers in mind. The course registration fee of $195 includes two live, virtual panels with industry leaders in addition to a weekly curriculum of interactive and informative lessons and exercises. Each module covers a specific topic that experts have deemed to be important for an intern’s success. The topics covered in this program include:

Cohort start dates:

  • February 3, 2025
  • March 31, 2025
  • June 30, 2025
  • September 8, 2025


The IRCP instructor is Fabian J. De Rozario, CEO of GlobalConnect Consulting & Training LP.

Reviews

Owen Chavez

"I really enjoyed the course it taught me great things about how to navigate the workplace and the people inside of these organizations. The course was fun and easy to navigate, overall it was a positive experience."

Erykah Platts
IRCP Alumni

“Every module was full of valuable information, and I intend to use it for future endeavors. I am grateful for this program and for learning what it means to be a successful intern.”

Andrea Mottau
IRCP Alumni

“I am so thankful to have received the opportunity to partake in such a wonderful course and I feel much more confident in my future endeavors. Not only were these modules informative, but they were extremely fun as well! Thank you Mr. De Rozario as well as the NSHSS team and all the wonderful guest speakers.”

Czarina Almira Cabulisan
IRCP Alumni

“Throughout this course, I gained valuable knowledge and skills that I will take with me throughout my academic life as well as my career. Thank you to the people behind this for creating all the informative and very helpful modules."

Murielle Wandji
IRCP Alumni

“This was an exceptional experience. Thank you, Mr. Fabian and your team for all your hard work and dedication put into these modules, I really appreciated it because of how informative they all were. Thank you to the panelists for taking the time to meet with us in every meeting.”

Alexandra Lazarenko
IRCP Alumni

"Thank you so much to all the participants in this course—it has been a thrilling and informative 10 weeks, and I hope to keep getting to know all of you—as well as the rest of the NSHSS community—as we all venture out into the world to make a positive difference.”

Anna Ruth Deal
IRCP Alumni

“Each and every module given to us has changed my mindset on how to approach an internship, how to talk to a supervisor, and how to go day by day and give it your all. Thank you for this opportunity to expand my knowledge. This webinar will help me with my current adventure of taking on college. I feel more prepared now than when I started so thank you!"

Dustin Siebert
IRCP Alumni

"The examples helped me understand just what I was supposed to be thinking about. This content has opened my eyes to just how much you have to think about. I will most definitely use this information in the future."

Claire Dunham
IRCP Alumni

"The activities make me think about how I would use what I have learned, making the skills more memorable."

Julia Gebretatiyos
IRCP Alumni

"Every time a new module is opened, I am excited to open it and learn something new."

Madison Hays
IRCP Alumni

"NSHSS has incredible learning opportunities and provides services that allow for personal beneficial growth! One program NSHSS offers is the Intern Readiness Program, which teaches leadership and allows individuals to prepare their skills before positioning themselves within an internship. Not only are these benefits ideal for educational growth, they can aid in financial support and provide fun experiences for many to enjoy! I am so lucky and honored I was able to join NSHSS and utilize the opportunities provided!"

Amaan Shirwani
IRCP Alumni

"Three things I found beneficial in the course were the information and ideas it provided, the motivation and inspiration the activities and the videos gave, and the format and layout of the modules."

Josh Banks
IRCP Alumni

"A really professional and well done seminar."

LuchianofernandoIRCP_2024
Luchiano Fernando
IRCP Alumni

“This course opened my eyes to BIG hitters in the workplace. These skills will help me be successful beyond my work life. I will be able to communicate with anybody and develop meaningful relationships. I feel this course made a positive impact on my future and I have recommended it to many of my peers.”

Alexis Choi
IRCP Alumni

"This course was SO helpful. I was pleasantly surprised at how organized, in-depth, and easy to navigate everything was! I've come away from this program with much more knowledge on internships and skills that I hope I can put to use in real life! I think this course is one that everyone, whether you're a student or an adult going to work, can benefit from."

Hilda Diyoh
IRCP Alumni

"This course is exceptional and it opens your mind about work ethics and how to appropriately accomplish tasks. I have learned so much to help me prepare for future internships."

Zane Thompson
IRCP Alumni

"This was an amazing program. I learned so much about managing my time, building important relationships, having the right leadership qualities, and so much more!"

Jason Brooks
IRCP Alumni

"The NSHSS Intern Readiness Program was a huge influence on my perspective on life and how to handle the working challenges of life. I feel like I have learned what it takes to be a successful intern through and by each of the ten modules, and I fully recommend to anyone and everyone to take this course if you can! The instructors make a big percentage of the reason why I had such a pleasurable experience because they spoke to us in a manner that was informative, encouraging, and realistic. I had a blast navigating the Intern Readiness Program, and I wish all of those who take it in the future a fun and educational experience."

Emma Snider
IRCP Alumni

"This course was really great considering I'm about to look for my first job here soon. I feel more confident in the abilities I can offer in the workplace."

Trista Miller
IRCP Alumni

"I really enjoyed attending this program and learned a lot about what to do and what not to do in internships, which I surprisingly didn't know much about. I also enjoyed being able to connect with new people all across the country!"

Kaitlyn Charette - IRCP

"Incredibly Informational, definitely worth it! Each module focuses on a topic which makes it easier to focus on one subject at a time; and the modules helped me apply those skills both in the assignments and the real world!"

Naohmi Rivadeneira
IRCP Alumni

"The course was extremely insightful and taught me so much on proper work skills and etiquette. I feel so much more prepared and informed for internships than I was before. I recommend this program for sure."

Alexa Melendez
IRCP Alumni

"This course was very great I enjoyed it very much because their was so much different information given about many different things to help me improve as a person."

Sothi Pichvong
IRCP Alumni

"I actually do think differently about internships now that I've taken the IRCP course. It helped me realize that an internship isn't just about you or what you're good at; it's also about how you interact with your coworkers and workplace. Everything you do or say will have an impact on everyone you work with. The ten modules are all very beneficial, and each one focuses on a different area of preparing you for the challenges you may face during an internship."

Abdussalam Raheem
IRCP Alumni

"The Intern Readiness Certificate Program is a very informative course. I know more about being an intern despite never being one. I know how to act, what I need to do, and everything I need to know to prepare me to be a fantastic intern and an employee. In this course, I could engage in the lessons and leave my own experiences and opinions, not just mindlessly reading the modules. Experts in the workplace give advice and answer your questions, and there is a discussion board where you can talk with other people going through the same course to discuss each module's lessons. I will definitely recommend this course to everyone who wants/is an intern and even a full-time employee. This is a wonderful course, and you can hardly find one well structured and informative as the IRCP."

Anna Catherine Sgroi
IRCP Alumni

"I really enjoyed this course! It taught me a lot of important information through videos, articles, interactive quizzes/questions and more! I am very excited to apply this information to my future internships!"

Selenasmith 2024

Featured IRCP Alumni: Selena Smith

Intern at SAS Geospatial

“Since completing the IRCP, I have seen many improvements in the way I function in my job. I now take advantage of work opportunities, speak up about ideas or concerns I have, and try my best to stand out as a leader although I have no formal leadership position. In addition, I have also grown in my communication skills; I feel more confident talking to my coworkers when before I would avoid social interactions in my job. The IRCP has taught me the importance of taking initiative and intentional communication, and I am a better intern because of it.”

Frequently asked questions

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General Questions

To register for the program go to registerircp.nshss.org

This program does not guarantee internship opportunities for the student. Instead, it prepares students for a diverse range of employment opportunities and offers an outline towards personal growth, leading to success in internships and beyond. Finding and being placed in an internship is dependent on the student, but the NSHSS Career Center is a great resource for posting your resume. All participants who successfully complete all coursework and program requirements will receive a certificate of completion.

The program was crafted with high school and college students in mind, yet its relevance extends to anyone embarking on their employment journey.

The course registration fee is $195, which includes access to the 10-module program, two live virtual panels, and a weekly curriculum of interactive lessons and exercises. Participants who complete the course requirements receive a digital course certificate. 

The program is led by Fabian J. De Rozario, a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience as the CEO of GlobalConnect Consulting & Training LP. Fabian brings a unique blend of expertise in personal and professional development, making him an invaluable guide for students seeking to enhance their skills and succeed in the professional world. His extensive background ensures that participants receive top-notch guidance and insights throughout the Intern Readiness Certificate Program.

Check out https://www.nshss.org/be-more/intern-readiness-certificate-program/ for information on registration.

At this time, there is no financial aid for the program.

Absolutely, the Intern Readiness Certificate Program is tailored for individuals at the beginning of their employment journey. It covers fundamental skills and knowledge applicable to those entering the workforce for the first time.

NSHSS offers various resources, including additional programs, webinars, and the NSHSS Career Center, allowing participants to continue their professional development journey.

No, NSHSS membership is not a requirement to enroll in the Intern Readiness Certificate Program. The program is open to all individuals who are looking to enhance their skills and prepare for success in the professional world, regardless of NSHSS membership status.

Yes, technical support is available to assist participants with any issues related to accessing or navigating the online platform from 9AM - 5PM Monday through Friday. If you are having an issue please reach out to us at ircp@nshss.org.

The program is designed for high school and college students, but individuals at the beginning of their employment journey, regardless of age, can benefit from the content.

New cohorts start quarterly, and participants can join during the registration periods for upcoming cohorts.

The IRCP is an immersive program designed by NSHSS to prepare students for a successful transition into the professional world, focusing on personal and professional development.

Course Benefits

The Intern Readiness Certificate Program was created to cultivate the needs and goals of young professionals. Many students struggle to seamlessly transition into their roles in the workforce due to a lack of experience in personal and professional development. The Intern Readiness Certificate Program was created to give students a toolkit of vital skills which will allow them to succeed in the workplace.

The Intern Readiness Certificate Program is designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge to succeed in the professional world. The program focuses on personal and professional development, providing a valuable toolkit for various career paths.

Certificates

All participants who successfully complete the coursework and program requirements (attendance or reflection for two live sessions and an 80% or greater on the Final Assessment) will receive a digital NSHSS Intern Readiness Certificate, recognizing their commitment to professional development.

No, certificates for the Intern Readiness Certificate Program are provided in digital format. Upon successfully completing all the coursework and program requirements, participants will receive a digital certificate. This digital format allows for easy sharing, storage, and inclusion in digital portfolios. Certificates will be accessible through the program platform, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to showcase your achievement.

Live Sessions

Yes, there will be two exclusive virtual live sessions featuring a variety of guest speakers dedicated to your course. If you are unable to attend the session live, a reflection will be provided for your completion.

Yes, the course includes two live virtual panels with industry leaders, offering networking opportunities. Participants can engage with professionals, gain insights, and expand their professional connections. The session will end with a live Q&A with the panelists. Additionally, the course incorporates discussion activities into each module, allowing students to spend time practicing their new skills with their peers. 

Course Content

The modules cover critical areas such as core values, ownership conviction, critical thinking, managing priorities, communication, presence, inclusiveness, leadership, relationships, and managing difficulties.

The Intern Readiness Certificate Program's 10 modules each focus on specific objectives to prepare participants for success in the professional world. Here's a brief overview of the objectives for each module:

  1. Core Values:

    • Objective: Establish a foundation of personal and professional values, understanding how they contribute to success in the workplace.
  2. Ownership Conviction:

    • Objective: Cultivate a sense of responsibility and ownership in tasks and projects, promoting accountability and commitment.
  3. Critical Thinking:

    • Objective: Develop critical thinking skills to analyze information, solve problems, and make informed decisions in a professional context.
  4. Managing Priorities:

    • Objective: Acquire techniques for effective time management, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines in a dynamic work environment.
  5. Communication:

    • Objective: Enhance communication skills, including written and verbal communication, to convey ideas and information effectively.
  6. Presence:

    • Objective: Develop a professional presence, understanding how personal presentation and demeanor impact professional relationships.
  7. Inclusiveness:

    • Objective: Foster inclusivity in the workplace by recognizing and appreciating diversity, creating a positive and collaborative work environment.
  8. Leadership:

    • Objective: Cultivate leadership qualities and skills, empowering participants to lead with influence and contribute to team success.
  9. Relationships:

    • Objective: Build strong professional relationships, understanding the importance of collaboration, networking, and teamwork.
  10. Managing Difficulties:

    • Objective: Develop resilience and problem-solving skills to effectively navigate challenges and setbacks in the workplace.

These objectives are designed to provide participants with a comprehensive skill set, ensuring they are well-prepared for the diverse demands of internships and future professional roles. Each module addresses key aspects of personal and professional development, contributing to a holistic and impactful learning experience.

Each module includes interactive activities to reinforce learning and gauge participant understanding, some modules include a quiz. 

Course Format

The program consists of 10 comprehensive e-learning modules, each covering essential topics for intern success. One opens each Monday starting on your course start-date and is available through the course deadline. 

The program spans 12 weeks from the start date to the deadline. Participants engage in a weekly curriculum of interactive lessons and exercises for the first ten weeks. Additionally, two live virtual panels with industry leaders are included.

Yes, the IRCP will hold four cohorts in 2024, starting on February 5, April 15, June 24, and September 9.

The system will be available to students for a short time following the course to allow for the downloading of certificates and essential course materials. This allows for ongoing reference and reinforcement of the skills acquired during the Intern Readiness Certificate Program.

The program is designed to accommodate a variety of schedules. Participants can expect to dedicate about an hour each week to complete the coursework and engage in the interactive lessons and exercises. The live sessions will be 90 minutes each. 

Participants will receive feedback on their performance at a few points throughout the program. This feedback is designed to enhance the learning experience and provide valuable insights into individual areas for growth. 

The program offers interactive lessons and exercises, encouraging participant engagement. Additionally, there are discussion boards and live virtual sessions, providing opportunities to interact with both instructors and fellow participants.

Yes, the course materials are accessible on various devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. For use on a mobile phone, download the "Brightspace Pulse" App. 

Yes, the program is designed to be flexible, allowing participants to engage with the content at their own pace. However, consistent participation is encouraged for the best learning experience.

While the course primarily includes group interactions, participants can engage with the instructor during live virtual sessions.

Refunds

I'm sorry to hear you do not wish to stay in the program, as outlined in our terms and conditions, full refunds are available prior to the start date or within the first week of the program. If eligible for a refund, please email ircp@nshss.org to begin the refund process. If you fall outside the eligibility window, refunds or credit toward a future course will be handled on a case by case basis. 

Cancellations made before or within the first week of the program start date will be due a full refund. Any cancellations made after the one-week trial period are not due a refund of any kind.