At the International School of Boston, Grade 10 students have participated in a Work Observation Week since 2013, stepping into professional environments to gain firsthand insight into different industries. Work Observation Week aligns with ISB’s Vision for Learning, encouraging students' meaningful and regular engagement in purposeful activities. 

Taking the Lead in Career Exploration

One of the most valuable aspects of a work observation program is the opportunity for students to develop their independence. At ISB, students take the lead in finding their host company. Rather than being assigned a placement, they initiate outreach to professionals in fields that interest them, with support from their families. This independence makes the experience more meaningful and offers them a firsthand look at industry networking. Occasionally, it even allows students to build connections within the school’s parent and alumni networks, as many community members are eager to give back in this way.

Students are encouraged to explore a wide range of experiences. Over the years, ISB students have explored industries including: 

• Media and communication agencies 
• Veterinary clinics and hospitals 
• Law firms and financial institutions 
• Libraries and schools 
• Architecture and engineering firms 

No matter the industry, students keep notes throughout the week, reflecting on their observations and preparing a final report and presentation to their peers once they return to school.

Preparing for the Workplace

Walking into a professional setting for the first time can feel overwhelming. That’s why preparation makes all the difference. Before meeting their host companies, students participate in sessions designed to build their confidence and readiness and develop lifelong skills. During these sessions, students learn about: 

• Workplace etiquette and how to communicate professionally 
• Writing emails and making phone calls to request opportunities 
• Identifying career interests and finding host placements 
• Using templates to guide their introduction letters, observation journals, presentations, and reports 

By the time they start their Work Observation, students aren’t just showing up; they’re ready to make the most of their time and ensure a mutually beneficial experience for the host company.

Why Early Career Exposure Matters

Gaining an inside look at a profession, even just for a week, can have a lasting impact. It helps students identify what excites them (or doesn’t), boosts their confidence in professional settings, and teaches them essential skills such as communication and networking. Research has shown that early work experience benefits young people by helping them develop workplace skills, build confidence, and improve future job prospects (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, 2022). While not every student will pursue the field they observe, each one gains a deeper understanding of the working world and what it takes to be successful. Programs like this open doors, exposing students to new possibilities and helping them return to school with a clearer vision of their future.

For many, this is just the beginning. Work Observation Week is a stepping stone that sparks curiosity, builds connections, and lays the groundwork for future career exploration.
 

About the Author: Joyce Latapie is the Secondary School Director at the International School of Boston, where she has held various teaching and administrative roles for 25 years. She has taught in both the International Baccalaureate and French Baccalaureate Tracks and at the Middle and Elementary School levels; served as an examiner for the French Baccalaureate Program; and has supported the School’s strategic needs on various re-accreditation and search committees. On a personal level, Joyce is the proud parent of three ISB graduates.