How to look for a program:

How do I find a program?

Programs that Fulfill the Leadership Program Requirement

***All programs MUST BE approved by the Leadership Program coordinator.

Please consult with the Leadership Program Coordinator about any questions or concerns you may have about a particular program that is of interest to you. All programs:

  • Must be sponsored by a registered business or organization.
  • Business or organization cannot be owned or operated by a relative of the student.
  • Student cannot be supervised by a family member.

Finding a Program Outside TRCS

There are many opportunities for community service and internships available to high school students in New York City. While many organizations and businesses have dedicated programs for high school students, others may offer students position only upon request. The Leadership Program Coordinator can help you develop a plan for applying to programs of your interest, but doing the actual research falls on you (the student). Students who dedicate time to research and ask for help will find the best opportunities.

General tips for finding programs

  1. Make list of programs that interest you as you conduct research.
  2. Google search programs and look through the list of programs on the Leadership Program Website
  3. Ask juniors and seniors who have gone through the process for help. Older students have experience in the program and can make suggestions based on your specific interest.
  4. Ask friends and family members for help. Note that students are not allowed to work with family members or in family-run businesses.
  5. Meet with the Leadership Program coordinator and finalize your enrollment.

Applying to Programs

The Application Process

Once a student has a solid list of programs of interest, he or she will be ready to start applying to programs. TRCS provides envelopes and postage for students who need to send applications by mail.

Here are a few tips for applying to programs:

  1. First figure out the deadline. This is critical because most programs won’t accept applications after the deadline has passed.
  2. Make a list of the application’s requirements. Programs may ask for:
    1. Transcript or progress report
    2. Letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor
    3. A personal statement or essay
    4. Parent permission form
  3. TRCS provides envelopes and postage for students who need to send applications by mail.
  4. Let the Leadership Program Coordinator what programs you’re applying to ahead of time, so they can approve your applications and support you with the process.

What to do after applying to a program

  1. Find out when the program is supposed to notify students of decision. If you can’t find this information online, call or email the program directly.
  2. Email or call the program If you haven’t received an acceptance letter by the appropriate date.

What to do once accepted to a program

  1. Notify the program by email or phone that you will be attending. Failure to notify the program may result in your position being given to someone else.
  2. Complete the TRCS Leadership Program Enrollment Form on the first day of your program.
  3. Submit the TRCS Leadership Program Enrollment Form to the Leadership Program Coordinator by the set deadline.

Rules and Responsibilities During the Program

The particular responsibilities of students vary by program. However, there are general rules and responsibilities that all TRCS students are expected to follow regardless of the program in which they participate. These rules and responsibilities are outlined in the Enrollment Form, which students, parents and supervisors must sign. The Leadership Program Enrollment Form must be submitted to the Leadership Program Coordinator by the set deadline.

Metrocards

Metrocards are available for students who need to attend a program outside of TRCS and anyone enrolled in a CUNY College Now course. To receive a Metrocard students must notify the leadership program coordinator what days you have to attend.

Studying Abroad

TRCS students are encouraged to study abroad while in high school, usually during the summer. A list of study abroad programs is available on the Leadership Program website. Talk to the Leadership Program Coordinator if you are interested in studying abroad and need help figuring out the right program for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I do not like my program?

Students who are not satisfied with their program and wish to change to a new one must complete a Request to Change Program Form. Please note that not all requests are approved and that students are required to complete the required hours even if he/she enrolls in a new program. Students who change programs or leave their program without authorization from the Leadership Program Coordinator will receive an Unsatisfactory grade on their transcripts.

What happens if my program requires more than the required hours?

TRCS requires all students to participate in leadership, internship or volunteer programs for at least 16 hours each semester. However, some programs may require students to participate for longer than 16 hours in a given semester. Students are responsible for staying in their programs throughout the duration of the program, regardless of the number of hours. Students who leave their program before it officially ends will receive an Unsatisfactory grade on their transcripts.

Are student athletes required to participate in The Leadership Program?

ALL students are required to complete the Leadership Program requirement even if they are involved in a sports team. Please speak to the Leadership Program coordinator if you are having trouble balancing your extracurricular activities.

May I intern for a family member?

Students are not allowed to work with family members or in businesses run by family members. Family members includes mother, father, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Students who are found to work with family members will automatically receive an “unsatisfactory” on their transcripts.

May I use my job to fulfill the Leadership Program requirement?

Yes. TRCS students may fulfill the Leadership Program requirement through a job. Please contact the Leadership Program Coordinator for more information.