The Year Up program is a nationally recognized, non-profit organization that provides young adults from urban areas with the skills, experience, and support necessary to reach their full potential. Founded in 2000 by Gerald Chertavian, the program aims to bridge the gap between the skills and aspirations of young adults and the needs of the business community. With over two decades of experience, Year Up has established itself as a leader in workforce development, serving over 30,000 students across the United States.
Program Overview
The Year Up program is a one-year intensive training and internship program that combines hands-on skills development, mentorship, and real-world work experience. The program is designed for young adults aged 18-24 who are motivated to succeed but may lack the resources and support to achieve their goals. Students are divided into two tracks: Information Technology (IT) and Finance Operations. The IT track focuses on developing technical skills in areas such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity, while the Finance Operations track emphasizes skills in financial analysis, accounting, and business operations.
Admissions and Eligibility
To be eligible for the Year Up program, applicants must meet certain criteria, including being between the ages of 18 and 24, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and being available to commit to a full-time program for one year. The admissions process typically includes an online application, phone screening, and in-person interview. Year Up also requires applicants to demonstrate a strong motivation to learn and a willingness to take on new challenges. According to Year Up’s website, the program has a competitive admissions process, with an acceptance rate of around 20%.
| Program Track | Description | Skills Developed |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology (IT) | Software development, data analysis, cybersecurity | Programming languages (e.g., Java, Python), data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau), cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., CompTIA Security+) |
| Finance Operations | Financial analysis, accounting, business operations | Financial modeling (e.g., Excel), accounting principles (e.g., GAAP), business operations management (e.g., Six Sigma) |
Curriculum and Training
The Year Up program consists of six months of classroom training, followed by six months of internship experience with a corporate partner. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the skills and knowledge required to succeed in their chosen field. Technical skills are taught through a combination of lectures, labs, and project-based learning, while soft skills are developed through workshops, mentoring, and coaching. Year Up’s curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest industry trends and technologies, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the needs of employers.
Internship Experience
The internship component of the Year Up program provides students with the opportunity to apply their skills and knowledge in a real-world setting. Corporate partners, such as Microsoft, Bank of America, and Google, host students for six months, providing them with hands-on experience and exposure to the industry. Internships are designed to be challenging and rewarding, with students working on projects that contribute to the company’s goals and objectives. According to Year Up’s data, over 90% of interns are offered full-time employment or contract work with their corporate partner upon completing the program.
- Corporate partners provide students with real-world work experience and industry exposure
- Internships are designed to be challenging and rewarding, with students working on projects that contribute to the company's goals and objectives
- Students are mentored and coached by experienced professionals, providing them with guidance and support throughout the internship experience
What is the cost of the Year Up program?
+The Year Up program is free for students, with all costs covered by corporate partners and philanthropic donations. Students are also eligible to receive a stipend to support their living expenses during the program.
What kind of support services does Year Up offer?
+Year Up offers a range of support services, including mentorship, coaching, and counseling. Students also have access to academic support, career guidance, and job placement services.
In conclusion, the Year Up program is a unique and innovative approach to workforce development, providing young adults with the skills, experience, and support necessary to succeed in their chosen careers. With its comprehensive curriculum, internship experience, and support services, Year Up has established itself as a leader in the field, with a proven track record of success. As the job market continues to evolve, programs like Year Up will play an increasingly important role in bridging the gap between the skills and aspirations of young adults and the needs of the business community.
