Internships give students a clearer path

When Jacquelyn Bernal signed up for a summer internship in high school, she was mostly looking for something to do — and a paycheck. What she found instead was direction.  

“Honestly, you’re for sure coming out of it with a different mindset,” Bernal said.  

Now a college student studying social work and psychology in Arizona, Bernal said the experience gave her an early look at the working world and helped shape what came next. 

She spent several summers working at Vista Middle School, assisting teachers and helping administrators prepare for the upcoming year, but the biggest takeaway didn’t come from the tasks themselves. 

“I was able to talk to adults and just get their perspective on life and working,” she said, adding that those conversations helped her better understand her future. 

That clarity came with a few surprises. 

“I definitely don’t want to work in a school,” Bernal said. “But it really just changed my view on wanting to help and it’s more of a want now.” 

That shift led her toward a career in social work — and a desire to create opportunities for others. 

“I could be the next one to make an internship for someone,” she said. 

The Doña Ana County Summer Internship Program, launched in 2021 in partnership with the New Mexico Public Education Department, connects students with local businesses and organizations for hands-on experience across a range of industries, with more than 10,000 students participating so far. 

For employers, the program offers a chance to mentor students while strengthening the local workforce pipeline. Beth Williams, president and CEO of The Bridge of Southern New Mexico, said internships are central to the organization’s mission. 

“We have been very focused on promoting students in the workforce,” Williams said. “It was a natural fit to help students explore different careers.” 

Students working with The Bridge gain hands-on experience through networking with professionals and touring major employees such as El Paso Electric and Virgin Galactic. 

“They really get to be exposed to several different career opportunities,” Williams said. 

Williams said the experience is just as meaningful for mentors, noting that working with students brings a renewed sense of purpose.  

“I learn something new from them probably every single day,” she said. “It reminds me why we do the work that we do.” 

For students, the program builds more than just experience, helping them develop habits that carry into future work. Bernal said the internship taught her responsibility and the importance of showing up ready each day. 

“It taught me responsibility. I have to show up every day ready to work.” 

She added that even for those initially drawn in by a paycheck, the experience offers a clearer picture of what adult life can look like. 

“It’s a way of opening your eyes into what adult life is like.” 

Applications for the 2026 summer internship program are open through March 31. Students and businesses can register online at nminterns.com.