Frankenmuth

8 As part of my schedule this year, I spent roughly an hour each weekday working as an intern with the City of Frankenmuth, primarily at the Department of Public Works (DPW) and also with the Beautification Crew. I would like to pursue a career in environmental studies and sustainability and working for Frankenmuth provided me with an opportunity to see all of the operations in the City; especially their planning with flowers and plants. I soon realized that my senior internship gave me plenty of practical experiences in my desired field, especially now as planting season begins! However, it also opened my eyes to the nuances of working in a state like Michigan. What about Michigan? The bone-chilling winters. I have always known that it can get pretty bitter in January and February, but working in it? Thankfully, this is where I was not only spared from the extreme cold, but also learned that the DPW works indoors! I discovered many positive life lessons outside of the duties that I anticipated from the City. Over the course of the year, I learned that people really make the workplace. Sharing laughs and struggles with my fellow coworkers made the time go quickly. Moreover, every single person I had the pleasure of working with has treated me as an equal, which is important to a high schooler. There are few words that can truly describe how much I admire that. It made me feel whole and, admittedly, years beyond my young age. Arguably, the most important attribute I have picked up since last October is developing a stronger confidence in myself and my voice. I have always been one to shy away from speaking in front of huge swaths of people. Now, that does not really apply to my position with the City, but it certainly helped me realize that everyone is human and that we all experience similar emotions and predicaments. Realizing this aided me in shedding my shell and becoming a much less anxious and a more empathetic individual. My experience with the City has been fantastic. I am wholeheartedly grateful and appreciative for everyone who helped me grow and prepare for my future. I give special thanks to my supervisor, Dan Hopp, and the City Manager, Bridget Smith, for taking a chance on a 17-year-old high schooler. It was an honor to work for the City, and I am eager to see what the summer holds. LOCAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Frankenmuth's businesses provide our students with exceptional co-op and internship opportunities. As students begin to consider their futures, such experiences greatly impact their paths. The Frankenmuth School District is extremely grateful for the commitment of the leaders in our community to assist in this beneficial learning process. Senior Joseph Stahlbaum completed an internship with the City of Frankenmuth. Here's his story… "Every single person I had the pleasure of working with has treated me as an equal, which is important to a high schooler. There are few words that can truly describe how much I admire that. It made me feel whole and, admittedly, years beyond my young age."

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