Is Bridge worth your time? The debate about the value of the Bridge program sparks mixed opinions. While some students strongly advocate for it, others remain undecided. Bridge offers senior year students at Ipswich High school a chance to step away from traditional education and gain real world work experience. This program allows eligible students to spend their final quarter of the year participating in an out of school internship. However you must qualify for certain criteria such as adequate academic standings, a clean disciplinary record, and acceptable attendance.
Bridge is an incredibly valuable opportunity for high school students. It not only enhances your education it also provides a chance to acquire money and lay it aside for future endeavors. By working in a professional environment, students acquire practical skills that are typically overlooked in classrooms. These skills consist of communication, teamwork, and problem solving capabilities. Internships can also help students make more informed decisions about their futures. Furthermore, internships look fantastic on resumes and demonstrate to admission offices and future employers you are proactive and dedicated to achieving your career goals.
Bridge is a privilege that can come and go with ease. Students participating in Bridge must work a minimum of thirty hours per week for a six week period. However, each AP, dual enrollment, or VHS class you are enrolled in deducts four hours each week. On top of working these hours you must have a clean disciplinary record for your entire senior year. Meaning no academic infractions and no out of school conducts. Passing grades in all three quarters leading up to Bridge are also mandatory for eligibility.
Mr.Wood, one of the Bridge coordinators, shared his insights during an interview. When asked whether students regret their participation in Bridge, he promptly answered “I have not.” He also noted “The only drawback I’ve observed is some students struggle to find the balance point of education and work.” He then went on to explain how he’s seen many students be offered more serious work positions post graduation due to their hours worked during their final quarter of the school year. In summary, Mr.Wood affirmed the fact that “Bridge allows students to have a smooth transition from the high school to college experience.”
Some may argue that Bridge is not the dream scenario it’s made out to be. Some students are reluctant to miss their final quarter of their high school career. Bridge is also not ideal for everybody’s situation. Balancing a real job with multiple advanced classes and extracurricular activities is not an easy task. Often students who are a part of more than one AP struggle to find a job that will fit their schedule. As despite being able to miss all other classes you must be in attendance for your advanced placement courses. Additionally, not all internships are paid, and unpaid roles feel like a waste of time, particularly if the work experience does not align with the student’s goals.
Although many students are intimidated by ending their senior year early, Bridge is definitely worth the risk. It’s a low risk, high reward opportunity for those with the flexibility to participate. Many students report feeling relieved by the change in routine, as they no longer have to attend school daily and instead experience a refreshing break from the traditional classroom learning experiences.
