YMCA Career Candidate Program
Springfield College offers the
YMCA Career Candidate Program, a unique program of academic and co-curricular education.
Academic Preparation
Students major in an academic discipline that will allow them to channel their specific interests into YMCA work. Some examples are: Youth Development, Applied Exercise Science, and Business. In addition, all “Y Students” minor in YMCA Professional Studies.
Leadership and Professional Development
The YMCA Club is one of the largest co-curricular activities on campus and functions in many ways as a “Y without walls.” The Y Club offers students leadership and professional development activities; participation in YMCA conferences; volunteer programs; and travel to Ys.
Career Development
YMCA Career Candidates participate in a comprehensive career development program beginning in their first semester on campus. The program is designed to prepare students for transitions through their college experience to be fully prepared for professional employment.
Internships and Summer Employment
The YMCA Office helps students gain meaningful employment at partnering YMCAs, providing valuable experience each summer. Students typically participate in their formal internship in the summer following their junior year.
Volunteer Opportunities
The value of learning through volunteer service is recognized as a time-honored tradition at Springfield College and is embraced by students, faculty and staff. Many volunteer opportunities are offered to Springfield College students on a regular basis.
Travel
YMCA students enjoy exciting opportunities to travel to YMCAs both nationally and internationally. In years past, students have traveled to California, Florida, North Carolina, Mexico, Peru, Canada, and South Africa.
