Help wanted:

Over the years I have come across people who have expressed difficulties in finding good work experience and have gaping holes in their resumes. 
This summer we have the perfect opportunity for teenagers specifically to get a jump start on finding some valuable experience in the newspaper business. Through a joint partnership with the Minnesota Newspaper Association and the Pohlad Foundation (owners of the Minnesota Twins), we are offering internship opportunities for teens between the ages of 16-19. Recent high school graduates are eligible.
Teenagers can get some practical experience in learning different areas of newspaper business, including graphic design, editorial and advertising sales. The interns will be able to choose which area they want to try their hand in. 
The position is ideal for teenagers who want to mix a little work into their fun summer. We’re willing to bring someone on for 20 hours per week over the entire summer. That still gives teens plenty of time to enjoy the summer or even find another job. 
Of course, we would love to have teens who may be interested in pursuing a journalism career. What a great way to learn about the business to see if it’s something they would like to pursue down the road. But we’ll also entertain the idea of someone who just wants a job to gain some general work experience. 
Though we have been advertising for several weeks, no one has stepped forward so far to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. The summer is upon us and we’re ready to put the interns to work. 
We have provided internship opportunities for six teenagers over the past five years. Most recently, Macaela Jensen and Kristin Smith joined our newspaper family as interns and even stayed on past the summer to gain additional experience. We have had incredible success with this program and have had some great interns.
During last summer, 65 interns from Albert Lea to International Falls were employed at community newspapers. They worked more than 10,600 hours and contributed hundreds of photos, stories, columns, page designs and other social media items for their community papers. 
The program has been found to be a huge asset to youth across the state and community papers all over. It is truly a unique and special experience.
Teens need to understand the importance of gaining real life experience. Having even just a summer job looks great for college applications, other employment opportunities and even when applying for scholarships and other things. 
I would hate to contact the state back to let them know we are unable to fill our intern openings. So teens here’s your chance to earn a little extra cash this summer while at the same time gaining valuable life experience that will likely pay big dividends for years to come.
It’s time for teens to go in hot pursuit of making a contribution to their community through the local newspaper. We’re waiting to hear from you.