Trailblazer
Child and Youth Program

What is the application process like?

• Applicants submit an application online through our website, providing their relevant details and preferences. It takes about an hour of active work and total time depends on how quickly your references respond.

How long does it take for the application to be reviewed?

• We aim to review applications promptly. You can expect to receive conditional admission within one week.

What is conditional admission, and what does it entail?

• Conditional admission means you have been provisionally accepted into the program. However, you will need to pass a federal background check to be fully admitted.

How can I stay updated on the status of my application?

• You can log in to your applicant portal on our website to check the status of your application, or you can contact our team for updates.

How does the application process work for international applicants?

• Unfortunately, we cannot accept international applicants at this time.

Can I apply with a group of my friends or colleagues and be placed together?

• While we cannot guarantee group placements, we do our best to accommodate preferences when possible. Please indicate your interest in being placed with specific individuals during the application process.

What should my resume include?

• Please include your most recent academic information (anticipated graduation date, degrees, GPA) and relevant work experience. If you have worked with children, provide details about that experience. Also include any leadership positions and volunteer experience you have.

Who should provide my recommendations?

• Recommenders need to have a professional or academic leadership position and a working relationship with you. Current or former work supervisors, academic advisors, professors, or coaches can provide excellent references and speak to your ability to work hard, show up, adapt, live independently, and represent our program well. Please contact your recommenders and invite them to complete the recommendation form they will receive via email.

What is involved in the background check process?

• The background check includes completing two documents about any criminal history, reference checks, fingerprinting, and other necessary screenings to ensure the safety of the children and youth served by Trailblazer CYP interns.

I already had my fingerprints taken for a different service. Do I need to do them again?

• Yes, fingerprints must be taken at a Fieldprints location with our program’s identification code. Fieldprints sends your fingerprints directly to the US Navy Coordination Office to begin your background check.

Can I choose my internship location?

• Once you’re fully admitted to Trailblazezr CYP, you’ll be provided with a list of available locations for placement. You can choose from these options based on your preferences.

How does the availability for placement work?

• We understand that our interns have different university schedules. We’ll ask about your availability to match you with a suitable placement during the process.

What are the placement options for interns?

• Interns can be placed in stateside locations within the United States or overseas, including Hawaii and international locations.

Is there a priority for returning interns?

• Yes, returning interns are given priority for overseas placements. New interns are likely to receive a stateside placement for their first internship.

Do I have to enlist in the military?

• No; you will serve as supplemental staff in the civilian sector, so no boot camp required!

What are the essential qualities you look for in applicants?

• We value qualities such as dedication, a passion for working with children and youth, adaptability, and a commitment to our mission of making a positive impact in every possible way.

Are there any specific academic requirements to apply for the program?

• We welcome applicants from diverse academic backgrounds. We prefer two semesters of college complete and a 2.0 GPA. There is an exemption process available for students who don’t meet these requirements.

How long does the internship typically last?

• Internship durations may vary, but the minimum is 12 consecutive weeks.

Can I take a break during my internship for a vacation or event?

• No, the US Navy installations depend on Trailblazer CYP interns to help their programs run smoothly. Please apply for an internship during a time period when you can commit to being at your installation every day for the duration of your internship.

What costs are my responsibilities?

• Interns in stateside locations are responsible for paying tuition for at least three credits (currently $255/credit) and a fully-refundable security deposit of $500. Interns in overseas locations are responsible for paying tuition for at least five credits (currently $255/credit), a fully-refundable security deposit of $1,000, and a $200 fee for group international travel insurance.

Will my scholarship or financial aid cover my tuition?

• Generally, scholarships and financial aid will cover your tuition if you take 12 credits. Please meet with your financial advisor to discuss options and requirements.

How much will I be paid?

• Interns are compensated at an hourly rate, depending on their service level (determined by prior experience and education). Hourly rates start at the current federal contract employee minimum wage and increase depending on service level. Interns are paid bi-monthly via a third-party payroll service and are subject to federal and state income taxes on earnings.

What support is provided to interns during their placements?

• We offer ongoing support, including mentorship, training, remote counseling services, and other resources to help you excel in your role and make the most of your internship experience.

Can I apply if I have prior experience working with children and youth?

• Absolutely! Prior experience is a valuable asset, but it’s not a requirement. We value a diverse range of experiences and backgrounds.

Are there opportunities for career development through this program?

• Yes, many of our alumni have pursued successful careers in child and youth services, education, and related fields. We provide resources and guidance for career advancement.

Are there opportunities for cultural exchange during international placements?

• Yes, international placements often provide unique opportunities for cultural exchange and immersion. You’ll engage with the local community and learn about their culture.

What does a day in the life of a Trailblazer CYP intern look like?

• As an intern, you’ll work 8 hours in program each day with a 30-60 minute lunch break during the fifth hour. You’ll work either in the Child Development Center with children ages 0-5, the School Age Care program with children ages 6-12, and/or the Youth Program with teens ages 13-18. You may work in one center for part of the day and another center for part of the day. In addition to your work in program, you will have 30-60 minutes of asynchronous coursework each week and one 30-minute live class during the week (usually in the evenings after work). You’ll have two days off per week and are permitted to explore the local area during your time off.

How do I earn college credit for the internship?

• This is a paid academic internship, so interns complete two parts: 1. 40 hours of in-program work each week 2. One online course that supports the in-program work. The online course consists of weekly modules and one weekly class meeting after work hours.

Which courses are available to choose from?

• Currently, there are three options available: RSM 3500R, RSM 3550R, and FSHD 3995. We will work with you to determine which course will best complement your major and academic requirements.

How many credits can I take?

• If you are serving in a stateside location, you are required to take at least three credits. If you are serving overseas, you are required to take at least 5 credits. Each internship can supply up to 12 credits to maintain full-time student status for scholarship and/or financial aid purposes. Weekly coursework will be adjusted to accommodate the number of credits you choose to take.

How do I enroll in the course?

• Just leave that to us! We will enroll you in the internship course in one of two ways. If you are a current Utah Tech University student, you’ll keep your enrollment status during the internship. If you are not a Utah Tech student, you’ll be enrolled as a non-degree seeking student.

I am not a Utah Tech student. Will my credits transfer  to my university?

• You will receive a transcript from Utah Tech University with your Trailblazer CYP internship credits. Please coordinate with your academic advisor before your departure date to ensure the credits will transfer to your institution. In most cases, they transfer as upper-division elective credits.

I already have a bachelor’s degree. Do I have to participate in the course and pay tuition?

• Yes; because this is an academic internship, all participants must participate in the course and pay tuition.