Phoenixville Chamber of Commerce

My Internship Gopher, supported in part by Chester County Economic Development Council, ITAG, and WIB, is turning challenges into opportunities for students sixteen years of age and older this fall, and businesses can make all the difference.

The Phoenixville Regional Chamber of Commerce is asking its membership to consider what a 21st century internship means.

The Downingtown Area School District's 21st Century Research Project uncovered a few important findings regarding internships - one being that everyone had their own idea as to what an internship meant to them.

Internships associated with My Internship Gopher are able to be as convenient, flexible and affordable as the business wants, with access to capable, caring students and school administrators.

Through My Internship Gopher, businesses have the option of posting virtual internships which do not require onsite visitations. Businesses might also want to post mock interviews or job shadows to see where students' skills and abilities might fit within their operations.

In addition, no other online system will give you the option of searching through students' profiles or provide students with a three-way online mentoring system. This program contains built-in accountability measures including online resources for businesses, students and schools, and an optional mid-cycle and end-of-internship e-assessment.

Internships and how we manage them do not have to be seen as a time waster. My Internship Gopher will help businesses not only save time, but also connect with capable and caring students willing to demonstrate their skills and abilities to enhance their products and services or even potentially build their future workforce. It is a win-win for everyone!

Seven high schools and one university will benefit from My Internship Gopher in the beta testing phase. Phoenixville High School and CAT Pickering are two of the seven high schools participating this fall. They are looking to My Internship Gopher for their one-stop-shop for both their business partners' and students' needs.

In January 2009, My Internship Gopher will be open to all colleges, universities and high schools. In the meantime, if businesses post two internship opportunities between now and December 31st, the $50 annual participation fee for unlimited postings will be waived.

If you have any questions regarding My Internship Gopher, please contact Molly Nece at 484.888.6191 or or for more information, go online www.myinternshipgopher.com.