Youth or Young Adults

The future of work is being written now—and you belong at the table. Our programs give you the pen.

Young Adults

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Oct 01 2026

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We believe every student and young adult should have the chance to turn their education into opportunity. By opening doors to real-world experiences, equipping you with essential workplace skills, and connecting you with mentors and networks, we help you bridge the gap between the classroom and your future career—so you can carve out a future that’s not only strong, but uniquely your own.

Our Approach

Our process starts with an application to help us get to know you and understand your career goals and interests. Our case managers will work with you to understand your goals and challenges, ensuring you receive the support needed to make the most of our programs. Select programs, like the PrepareRI Internship program, will also include a formal interview during this phase of the process.

Preparation

After the intake phase, we’ll match you with one of our career learning programs. Depending on the program, you may participate in a formal orientation or develop an individual service plan with specific goals to help you build a strong foundation for your future career.

Ready.Set.Work!

All of our programs include Ready.Set.Work!—a career readiness bootcamp that helps you build the skills you need to thrive in the workplace. From professional etiquette and effective communication to stress management and growth mindset, you’ll gain the confidence to launch your career with success.

We connect you directly with Rhode Island employers for an internship, co-op, apprenticeship aligned to your career interests and goals. Some opportunities may require an interview, but we’ll help you prepare every step of the way.

With our “earn while you learn” model, you don’t have to choose between experience and income. You’ll build skills, gain real-world experience, and earn wages and/or college credit at the same time.

Your journey with us doesn’t end here. Following your engagement with us, we’ll continue to support you on your career journey. Through our Alumni Services program, you’ll have access to continuing education trainings, networking opportunities and additional resources to help you continue growing and moving forward in your career.

Programs

PrepareRI High School Internship

PrepareRI High School Internship

Gain real-world experience, build your network, explore career pathways and gain critical skills for the workplace, all while earning wages; open to rising high school juniors at all RI public schools.

AmeriCorps

AmeriCorps

Serve your community while gaining work experience that aligns with your career interests; open to first-generation college students attending RIC.

Springpod

Springpod

Explore RI careers, meet employers and higher ed institutions, and try out real-world jobs in Springpod’s immersive 3D virtual world.

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College Co-ops

College Co-ops

Gain real-world experience, earn while you learn, and launch your career through hands-on co-op placements.

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“The PrepareRI program is helping to prepare young Rhode Islanders to enter the workforce with a better understanding of what interests them for a future career and helps them develop in-demand skills to meet the needs of employers.“

- Senator Jack Reed