Some LBCC students are getting an edge on career prospects through a newly formed fellowship program.
The Long Beach Public Service Corps is a paid fellowship program that provides local college students and recent graduates with hands-on experience working for the City of Long Beach and exploring careers in public service.
Students can earn $22 an hour and can work up to 400 hours in one of the city’s departments, such as, the Health Department, Economic Development, Community Development, the Police Department and the Mayor’s Office, to name a few.
The program’s goal is to provide students with various options.
Upon completion of the program, participants can choose to apply for a city job, receive an employment opportunity with a City department, or apply for graduate school.
Mario Martinez, a second-year fire sciences major, started his first work week at the Long Beach Fire Department in mid-February.
“I am amazed and honored to have this opportunity. The whole reason why I wanted to become a firefighter in the first place is because they save lives.” Martinez said.
Firefighters made a strong impression on Martinez when he was young, as he recounted a fateful experience when his family’s car had flipped over on the freeway as they returned from a trip to Mexico.
“Firefighters saved me and my family that day, and ever since then, I have wanted to repay that somehow, and I have found my calling,” said Martinez.
Martinez reports working in department uniform and learning the various duties from his assigned Community Services unit, which includes Alexander Munguia, Sergio Castillo, and Jack von Arx.
Uniformed professionals like firefighters, police, and public works are generally the most visible public service jobs, but there are plenty of other opportunities for career exploration throughout the city’s various administrative departments.
Michael Burns, a Business Administration student, was curious about public-sector jobs. When he was accepted in the program, he was elated, as it would serve as his first job opportunity.
Burns is assigned to the city’s Parks and Recreation department, where he is currently learning about the department’s events and permitting process.
Burns plans to transfer to Cal State Long Beach, and feels that the Corp program will add distinction to his application as he learns how the city conducts business with the public.
“From what I’ve experienced so far, everyone has been very welcoming, and it’s a great work environment. I would encourage any student interested to take the opportunity if offered,” Burns said.
While the first cohort is well underway, more are planned in the upcoming fall semester.