At Liberty Science Center, some students come not just for a field trip or family visit, but to glimpse at a potential career.

LSC's Job Shadow Program, a yearly program that starts up again for the school year later this month, allows students with special needs or socioeconomically disadvantaged students to experience a wide variety of careers that they may not have come in contact with before. During their visits, students ranging from grade 8 through 12 shadow an LSC staff member one-on-one, observing them in their specific work environment, whether that be on the exhibit floors or behind the scenes.

Science Center staff members immerse each student in their work, ensuring that students are not just observing, but participating hands-on in their daily tasks.

Past participants have learned soldering and programming skills with the Exhibit Maintenance team, created enrichment toys for animals with the Animal Husbandry team, interacted with visitors alongside the Animal Interpretation Associates, and even assisted in teaching scientific topics with the STEM Enrichment team.

Throughout their placements, students are encouraged to be as inquisitive as possible. In addition to shadowing, the students also discuss relevant topics such as job skills, customer service, conflict resolution, as well as participating in a mock interview.

This year, 35 students are participating in the program, an increase from 30 students last year. To learn more about the program, contact Molly Wilson at mwilson@lsc.org or Ruben Rosario at rrosario@lsc.org.