Kopernik Observatory and Science Center is seeking volunteers for a High School Internship Program. Students that are in grades 8-12 are eligible to apply for an internship at the Kopernik Observatory & Science Center. Interns learn a variety of skills such as: communication, science/engineering skills, organization, and gain valuable experience working with our students and the general public. Interns will have the opportunity to learn how to use telescopes and other equipment. Internships generally run in semesters in the Fall and Spring, but help is needed throughout the year. Interns are expected to volunteer about 12 times a semester. Each shift is generally 3-4 hours long and there is flexibility on dates and times. Intern duties include help with Friday Night events and other public programs, working in the gift shop, answering the phone, helping with Scouts, birthdays and other groups, helping run a variety of STEM classes, and assisting with supplies and organization. Participants will receive a letter of recommendation.
Location(s)
- Kopernik Observatory and Science Center in Vestal, New York
Schedule
- Year-Round (typically broken into Fall and Spring semesters, but help is needed year-round)
Cost/Compensation
- Free
Eligibility Requirements
- Students in grade 8-12
- Available to work 12 3-4 hour shifts per semester
- Students who live in the Southern Tier of NY and Northeast PA who can get to Kopernik by themselves or by having someone drive them.
Deadline
- Rolling
Application or Entry Requirements
- A completed online or paper application
- An interview
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
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Located atop a 1740 foot hill in Vestal, NY, 13 miles southwest of Binghamton, the Observatory has been one of the best-sited and best equipped public observatories in the Northeast United States for nearly 45 years. The Kopernik Observatory & Science Center is the first science laboratory facility in New York State designed for K-12 teachers, students and their families. Its mission is to offer hands-on investigations using advanced telescopes, computers and other tools, encouraging the discovery of the wonders of the Universe. The Observatory is also the home of the Kopernik Astronomical Society (KAS), a group of dedicated observational astronomers. Visitors to the Observatory often will find KAS volunteers helping at Kopernik programs.
