Spartan Project SEARCH Interns Build Skills, Confidence, and Connections at MSU

For Spartan Project SEARCH interns, learning extends well beyond the classroom. Throughout October and into November, participants have been gaining hands-on experience, developing workplace skills, and building connections across Michigan State University's campus.

Spartan Project SEARCH is a one-year school-to-work transition program that prepares young adults with disabilities for competitive, integrated employment. A collaboration involving Ingham Intermediate School District and Michigan State University (MSU), the program combines classroom instruction with internships in university departments, helping participants develop marketable skills and greater independence.

Learning Through Real-World Experience

As interns passed the halfway point of their first internship rotations, they continued developing technical skills and essential workplace habits, including time management, initiative, communication, and adaptability.

Participants are gaining experience in a variety of MSU departments, including dining services, linen services, campus facilities, the Main Library, and the MSU Vivarium.

Each placement offers opportunities to practice job-specific responsibilities while developing the transferable skills needed for long-term employment success.

One example is intern Justyn, who has been working at Sparty's Café. After gaining experience stocking merchandise and keeping the store organized, Justyn set a new goal: learning to operate the cash register.

With an opportunity to try something new, he quickly learned the process and successfully added another skill to his growing list of accomplishments.

His experience reflects a central focus of Project SEARCH: encouraging participants to set goals, challenge themselves, and recognize what they are capable of achieving.

Building Independence Beyond the Workplace

Interns also participated in activities designed to strengthen communication, teamwork, and community engagement.

During October, Spartan Project SEARCH connected with students from MSU's Business Residential Community for a shared outing at a local restaurant. The experience gave interns opportunities to practice social skills, develop friendships, and exchange perspectives with university students.

Participants discussed their internship experiences, employment goals, and plans for the future while learning about college life from their MSU peers.

The program also welcomed opportunities to reconnect with graduates, including visits with former interns at their workplaces and in the classroom. These connections offer current participants examples of continued growth and employment beyond the program.

Spartan Project SEARCH graduates and their families also joined the MSU Homecoming Parade, celebrating their connection to the university and the program's ongoing community.

Strengthening Partnerships and Professional Learning

October also brought opportunities for Spartan Project SEARCH staff to collaborate with fellow educators and workforce development professionals.

Program representatives participated in statewide Project SEARCH professional development events, connecting with instructors, skills trainers, business liaisons, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and community partners.

These gatherings provided opportunities to exchange ideas, share successful practices, and strengthen the partnerships that support students' transitions into employment.

Preparing for What's Next

As interns approach the conclusion of their first rotations in November, they are preparing for Employment Planning Meetings to reflect on their accomplishments, identify opportunities for continued growth, and establish goals for their next placements.

Each new responsibility, workplace connection, and personal milestone represents progress toward the program's ultimate goal: helping young adults develop the skills and confidence needed for competitive, integrated employment.

Through its partnership with Michigan State University, Ingham ISD continues to support meaningful learning experiences that help participants prepare for life and work beyond the classroom.