by Ziv Golan ‘26

The MCPS Summer RISE program is a unique opportunity for rising juniors and seniors to gain experience in their desired field of interest. The program offers students the chance to work with a variety of local businesses, organizations and other institutions ranging from Hospitals to Law Firms to the MCPS Central Office. 

“I interned with the MCPS Department of Partnerships, which happens to be the department that funded and created Summer RISE, ” said senior and 2024 participant Audrey Farris. “Being part of the Department of Partnerships, we got to learn about other students’ Summer RISE programs and the type of work they were doing,” said Farris “We visited internship sites and observed work ranging from groundskeeping to dog training. Learning about others’ experiences was so valuable and learning about how a county department works was so informative and helpful.”

Students often go into college without much exposure to the workforce and Summer RISE gives them the chance to see what they’re interested in. “This program gives each student the same opportunity and it is up to them to make it the best experience possible,” said Summer RISE coordinator Kevin Brunk. “Many students do the bare minimum and have EXCELLENT opportunities. Others participate for extended time beyond the minimum 50 hours, create great professional relationships with their host, stay connected for other opportunities (volunteering, letters of recommendation for jobs/internship).”

The application process is very easy and straightforward, with students filling out a short google form with personal information along with a few simple questions. This allows the program to be easily accessible unlike other internships that have an intensive application process. The program has risen in popularity every year since its founding, boasting over 3,000 applicants last year and even higher numbers expected this year. Typically around 1,100 students are chosen to participate, acceptance is conditioned on a variety of factors. 

“When placing students, the three main factors are industry preference, locations a student has access to, and the student’s availability to meet the host’s schedule,” said Brunk. “Of course there are some other factors that impact placement but that comes out in some of the other questions. Students that are successfully matched and accept the opportunity to participate will never have to be formally interviewed or have any other barrier to participation.” 

Summer RISE is highly recommended by past participants and presents an opportunity unlike any other. “I would 1000% recommend Summer RISE to any student. If you are considering it at all, you should just sign up and see what internship you got matched with because RISE was such an incredibly valuable experience. Not only will you learn a lot, you will make new friends and Summer RISE looks great on college applications,” said Farris.

The program is heavily advertised to students with program coordinators visiting schools along with informative emails sent out to students from the College and Career centers at MCPS high schools. Applications opened in mid-January and will close on February 18 at 5 pm, students are able to access the application link through Canvas.