Griffiss
New Visions Griffiss is a one-year program for high school seniors interested in exploring unique STEM-related careers. Students gain a real-world view of the field by working and learning alongside industry professionals in businesses in and around Griffiss Business Park in Rome. Through a combination of research and hands-on projects, students will gain academic knowledge, technical work skills and professionalism to give them a competitive advantage in their postsecondary pursuits.
Students divide their week between classroom instructional and career internship days, and they participate in one extended internship experience from September through June.
This program is located at MVCC in Rome. Transportation is provided to MVCC, but students must have their own transportation to and from their internship sites.
This program is part of our New Visions track, which emphasizes college preparation alongside work-based learning opportunities. These specialized, one-year courses are limited to seniors and require students to participate in an application and interview process. Interested students should:
- Demonstrate academic competency (an 85/B average or higher is recommended)
- Have a strong work ethic and be self-motivated
- Possess a commitment to excellence
- Show a willingness to interact with professionals in the field
Apply for a New Visions Program
What Students Learn
The Griffiss program helps students acquire essential college and workplace skills:
- Communication
- Leadership
- Workplace ethics
- Career development
- Learning styles
- College planning
- Current events and social issues
- Research and data analysis
- Project management
- Business and technology
How Students Learn
Students gain hands-on learning experiences and industry skills through:
- Classroom instruction
- Internships with career professionals (September-June, 2-3x/week)
- Project-based learning, research and presentations
- Field trips, college visits and guest speakers
- Experiential learning on topics such as business, technology, engineering, personal and professional development, and ethical principles.
Career Exploration
This program provides students with exposure to a variety of career pathways and college programs, including:
- STEM
- Remotely Piloted Aircraft (Drones)
- Mathematics
- Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Business
- Community Relations
Course Credits
Through our New Visions programs, students earn high school and college credits concurrently. These include:
- 2 Units of CTE
- EN101 and EN102 (replaces English 12)
- BM101 and PS101 (replaces Government & Economics)
- MA150 or MA151/152
- College Foundations
College courses are offered through Mohawk Valley Community College.
About New Visions
New Visions Programs offer exciting one-year options for mature, college-bound seniors. Students engage in rigorous academic and college preparation activities, assignments and projects. In addition to classroom learning, students are exposed to industry standards and workplace expectations through formal internships, helping students prepare for college and beyond. Students may earn advanced standing and/or college credits (dual credits) while still in high school.
New Visions students have opportunities to:
- Develop essential workplace skills for a competitive job market
- Build and practice leadership, social, time management and communication skills in real-world settings.
- Make connections with industry professionals
- Gain hands-on learning experiences in their chosen career pathway
- Receive support and guidance on college and job applications and interviews