On Monday, June 2, Ms. Gina Annitti’s Career Exploration Internship Program students celebrated the completion of internships they began in September. The program gives seniors the opportunity to “test drive” a career by interning in a field aligned with their interests and abilities. This marked the ninth year of the program, with 42 students successfully completing their internships in full.

Ms. Gina Annitti, the dedicated coordinator of Becton’s Career Exploration Internship Program, considers this role the most fulfilling aspect of her career. “Playing a direct role in helping students on their career journeys and witnessing their growth is extremely rewarding,” she shares.

Planning begins as early as June, well before students enter their senior year. Ms. Annitti connects with businesses based on student interests and forges partnerships that offer meaningful hands-on experiences. She organizes mock interviews and coordinates actual interviews during the summer—setting students up for success by the time their internships begin in early September.

This year, 42 seniors completed the program, each gaining valuable insight into their chosen fields. For some, the experience even helped reshape their futures.

Senior Alyson Alcantara interned at Smiles By Rizzo, a local dental office in Carlstadt. “I was able to work with different patients and see how helping someone feel confident in their smile can be so impactful,” she reflects.

Thanks to the mentorship of Dr. Rizzo, Alcantara now plans to pursue dentistry at Seton Hall University this fall. Originally considering a career as a dental hygienist, her nine-month internship helped her realize she wanted to become a dentist. She was even offered a job at Smiles by Rizzo, which she will continue over the summer and into college.

Senior Julia Bubendorf explored two paths, interning at School of Rock Carlstadt and Jones Strategy & Consulting Group for journalism. Bubendorf will major in Journalism in college and says the internship helped her gain skills that “go beyond the classroom,” such as communication and time-efficiency skills.

“I’ve learned so much through this experience—I feel well-prepared to continue my journey,” she affirms. From writing press releases and opinion editorials to drafting social media content, Bubendorf gained real-world writing experience. She will be working as a ghostwriter for Jones Strategy & Consulting Group and continuing at School of Rock as an employee.

Senior Rose Padovano interned at Maywood Memorial School as an elementary education assistant. Spending three days a week in various classrooms, she saw the profession from a new perspective.

“I loved learning what it’s like to be on the other side of the classroom. This program is a jumpstart for seniors—it gives us experiences some people never get,” she shares. Padovano will continue her journey in education this fall as she majors in English and Education at The College of New Jersey.

The Career Exploration Internship Program continues to be a transformative opportunity for Becton seniors, helping them gain clarity, confidence, and valuable professional experience. Juniors are strongly encouraged to apply—it just might change their lives.