Local businesses are discovering a powerful pipeline of future talent in their own backyard—students from State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota (SCF). This summer alone, over 120 SCF students are gaining professional experience through internships at more than 30 local companies. From accounting firms and dental offices to legal clinics and early childhood centers, these students are stepping out of the classroom and into careers.

Internships are more than temporary positions; they’re a form of experiential learning that connects academic instruction with hands-on practice. Take Jared B., for example, a full-time Dental Hygiene student who also works as a pharmacy technician at Sarasota Memorial Hospital. Before enrolling in the program, Jared shadowed dental professionals in both private and corporate settings. Those experiences helped him identify his ideal career path and fueled his passion for patient-centered care.

“It's been a long time since I’ve been able to say I love what I do,” Jared shared. “And I love this. I love it so much.” His story is just one of many that illustrate how impactful internships and experiential learning can be—not just for skill-building, but for finding purpose and direction.

SCF students are trained to meet the needs of today’s workforce. They’re prepared with the latest industry knowledge, guided by expert faculty, and supported by the Career Accelerator office, which connects students with meaningful internships and helps local businesses design roles that create real impact.

The objectives of internships at SCF are:

• Expose students to diverse careers, industries, and professional cultures.
• Allow students to apply and test academic knowledge in real-world settings.
• Help students develop deeper self-awareness, clarify goals, and build confidence in their chosen paths.

For employers, working with SCF interns is a chance to evaluate potential future hires, contribute to workforce development, and benefit from the drive and insight of students who are eager to learn and contribute. These interns are more than just extra hands, they’re the future of your industry.

If you're ready to invest in tomorrow’s workforce today, consider becoming an internship partner through SCF’s Career Accelerator office. You’ll be connected with highly capable students like Jared who are passionate, well-trained, and ready to make a difference in your organization.

To learn more, contact Inita S. Knox, ED.D., Director of the Career Accelerator, at (941) 752-5189 or via email at Knoxi@SCF.edu.

At SCF, we meet you where you are. We’re Everyone’s College.

For more information on available programs and how to apply, visit SCF.edu.

Tommy Gregory, J.D., is President of State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota.