My assigned externship gave me the opportunity to teach TRIO Upward Bound high school students, many of whom are first-generation college bound. I was assigned to teach two classes: Multimedia and STEM Career Exploration. The expectations set for me included guiding students in the Multimedia class to complete a digital yearbook that could also be used for promotion and advertisement of the program, and providing students with multiple opportunities to experience STEM occupations in Boise and the surrounding areas.

During the program, I organized and facilitated field experiences that brought students directly into STEM environments, including visits to the animal and plant science laboratories at the Idaho Department of Agriculture, where they learned about biosecurity and agricultural technology. We explored habitat design and conservation at Zoo Boise, visited the BSU College of Nursing and the Department of Kinesiology to explore health sciences, and toured the GIMM (Games, Interactive Media & Mobile Technology) program at Boise State University to learn about digital innovation.

In the Multimedia class, I guided students through the process of capturing photos and video content, collaborating on the layout, and producing a digital yearbook that documented the five-week summer experience. Students also worked in teams to produce promotional videos that highlighted the impact and opportunities provided by the TRIO Upward Bound program. Students were able to experience professional media production during our visit to PBS Idaho Public Television, where they observed behind-the-scenes broadcasting and storytelling techniques.

As an educator with 25 years of teaching experience, this externship has deepened my understanding of how immersive, career-connected learning can transform student engagement. It has broadened my perspective on integrating real-world applications and media production into my teaching style. I now see more clearly how exposure to authentic career pathways—combined with opportunities for student voice and creative expression—can inspire and empower learners. This experience has reinvigorated my practice and reaffirmed my commitment to preparing students not just academically, but for their futures.

Grade Level and Subject Taught: 9th-12th