Eight students in QC Project Search earn internships, self-confidence
There was plenty of pomp and circumstance for eight high school students from across the Quad Cities. They are celebrating their graduation from an internship program.
UnityPoint Health Project Search is a work-immersion program for students with disabilities. The commencement was an emotional but happy occasion as family and friends of graduates from Project Search celebrated the accomplishment.
UnityPoint Health program instructor Stacie Kintingh said internship opportunities like this help students professionally and personally. “It is vital that we give this opportunity to young adults with intellectual disabilities and other challenges. We provide that direct instruction piece where we’re right there learning and helping them grow as they learn and the supports that they need as they transition into 9 months of programming,” said Kintigh.
Proud father John Ramsdell agrees. He said he’s seen improvement in his son Ethan since he began the program. “This has been an amazing program for my son to basically transition into high school into the workforce,” he said. “We’ve seen so much growth through this program both personally and really at a developmental level, and we’re just excited to see what his next step looks like,” said Ramsdell.
Students gained hands-on experience in industries like dietary nutrition, logistics, and hospitality services during the program. Graduate Luke Menster said he’s thankful for the program for instilling a new sense of confidence in him. “When I first started in August I didn’t even talk like the first two months and I’m starting to speak a lot more now,” said Menster.
Graduate Ethan Ramsdell received an internship in information technology learning how to program computers, and hopes more students can experience the industry. “It was fun to do something like this and I would love for any kids like me to do this,” said Ramsdell.
This is the eighth year of the Project Search program.
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