DID YOU KNOW? Ninety-two percent of WLC job shadow hosts say their hosting experience was a valuable use of their time! Interested in learning how you can get involved and help students explore careers in your industry? Visit our Partners and Volunteers page to learn more.

Second Semester 2026 Internship Portal Now Open

We had another successful (and busy) summer of internships! Over 240 students completed internships with area businesses to explore potential careers of interest. Students also met regularly with our internship coordinators to learn key employability and career development skills.

The Internship Program offers students many meaningful benefits, including:

• Exploring career paths before committing. Students gain firsthand insight into potential fields of interest, helping them determine whether a career is the right fit.
• Earning high school and college credit. Participants can get ahead academically while making informed decisions about future coursework, training, and education.
• Building a strong résumé. Internships help strengthen applications for college, scholarships, and future job opportunities.
• Networking with professionals. Students connect with mentors and colleagues at all levels, creating valuable relationships for the future.
• Experiencing the workplace. Interns see what it’s like to work in their chosen field, including the typical work environment and expectations.

The application window for second semester 2026 internships is open from Sept. 22 to Oct. 31, 2025, at 3 p.m. Current high school juniors and seniors are eligible to apply.

To learn more about the program details and requirements, click here.

Hands-On Learning and a New Friend: Cora’s Veterinary Internship Journey

Marion Home School Assistance Program senior Cora Von Muenster completed a WLC internship this summer with the Monticello Veterinary Clinic. “I really enjoyed my internship experience and thought it was beneficial. I got to help prepare animals for surgery, restrain animals during blood draws, clean kennels and cages, and interact with a lot of animals.

“One highlight from my internship experience was that I got to graft an orphaned foal to a nurse mare. It was interesting to see the different strategies used to try and make it successful. Another huge positive that came out of my internship was that I got to meet and get to know a little orange kitten named Scotcheroo. I decided to adopt him, and now he is part of my family!”

Cora loved attending the internship meetings and sharing her experiences with her peers as well. “I felt like the internship meetings we had to attend were very informative and prepared me to go out and enjoy my experience. I appreciate WLC for the opportunity.”

Introducing New Workplace Learning Connection Team Member - Shalane Brinkman

Shalane Brinkman is the new large events coordinator, replacing Cheryl Valenta. Shalane will work out of the Linn County Regional Center and will focus on planning and coordinating our large, districtwide events such as STEAM Institute, Financial Literacy Fair, and Career Discovery Tours.

Where did you work prior to WLC?
Prior to WLC, I spent over 11 years at Wichita Public Schools in Wichita, Kansas. I spent the first 10 years as a sixth grade math teacher and then moved to their IT department as a software trainer and support specialist for the last year.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and my dog. I recently moved back to Cedar Rapids, so it has been great to reconnect and see my family more often. I also enjoy traveling — especially going on cruises! When I’m not planning my next trip, I love discovering new places to eat, catching up on my favorite TV shows, and hanging out with friends.

What careers were you interested in when you were in high school?
Ever since third grade, I knew I wanted to be a middle school math teacher, and I was fortunate to live out that dream for 10 years. Because I was so focused on that path early on, I unfortunately didn’t explore other career options in high school.

From your perspective, why is career exploration such a pivotal part of a student’s educational journey?
Career exploration is a pivotal part of a student’s educational journey because it opens their eyes to the wide range of possibilities that exist beyond what they may have initially considered. So often, especially in my case, we get set on one specific path early on and don’t take the time to explore other options that could potentially be a better fit. It’s easy to develop tunnel vision about what we think we “should” do, without realizing there may be careers out there that align more closely with our strengths, interests, and values. Taking time to explore helps students identify both what they enjoy and what they don’t, which is equally important. That kind of clarity is essential for finding a job that not only suits them but also makes them excited to show up every day and genuinely enjoy the work they do.

What are you looking forward to in your new role?
In my new role, I’m most looking forward to using my event planning experience to create meaningful opportunities for students to explore different careers. As a former teacher, I’ve seen how powerful well-organized, engaging events can be in shaping student experiences. I’m excited to support Kirkwood Workplace Learning Connection’s mission by helping bring real-world career exploration to life through impactful events.