Youth CoLab | Columbus NDC

WE'RE BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF

LEADERS

LEARN. DESIGN. IMPLEMENT.

The Youth CoLab is an award-winning paid internship for high school students. For 6 weeks, interns are empowered to become the next generation of designers, artists, architects, planners, and more while challenged to learn curiously, design authentically, and implement their ideas practically.

Every summer, we tackle a new project with a new client to enrich the built environment around Columbus.

Eastland's Canvas

Experience the Youth Colab's latest project on Columbus' Southeast side: Eastland's Canvas, in partnership with the Mid-Ohio Food Collective and Directions for Youth and Families.

LEARN MORE

The Experience

Our interns are introduced to a diverse range of practical skills for professional success in areas ranging from of design to community advocacy.

Professional Development

Interns are exposed to resume and portfolio building throughout the entirety of the program. Program coordinators work to sharpen intern's communication skills, confidence, and vocabulary to maximize their professional success. The program concludes with mock interviews to mimic a true professional environment,

Design Thinking & Research

Identifying client needs, community attitudes, design precedents, research, and teamwork are emphasized from day one. Interns are engulfed in tasks that are challenging, fast-paced, and engaging similar to that of the Neighborhood Design Center.

Design Studio

Interns are placed in teams and tasked with proposing unique design ideas based on client needs. They utilize a multitude of methods such as digital design software, hand-drawing, collaging, model-making, and more.

Building/Implementation

At the end of the program, the interns are tasked with the physical implementation of their idea. From painting to assembling, the interns are equipped with the knowledge and experience to see a project from start to very finish.

Winners-NDC_Voices of Design_Social Graphics6.jpg

Voices of Design 2024

Youth CoLab was a 2024 recipient of the Center for Architecture and Design's Voices of Design award. Voices of Design celebrates the impact of design projects, programs, and initiatives in the Columbus community.

Learn more about the Center for Architecture and the Voices of Design Award by clicking below.

Voices of Design 2024

Is there a fee to apply?

No. There is no application or program fee.
Who can write my letter of recommendation?

We ask that the letter of recommendation comes from a non-related adult that can speak to your character. This may include, but is not limited to: - A Teacher - A Former Work Supervisor - A Former Counselor or Program Coordinator - A Church Leader This person should be able to share why you are a good fit for this program.
What should the letter of recommendation say?

The letter of recommendation should highlight why you would be a good fit for the program. This can include speaking to your skills, interests in design, and/or previous workplace observations. Additionally, the letter must include the recommenders name and contact information (email and/or phone).
Am I required to get a work permit?

If you are between the ages of 14-17, you must obtain a work permit from your school in order to begin working. However, none is needed to apply! Click the button below to learn more about the process in the State of Ohio.
When is the program?

The program begins June 24, 2024 and ends August 2, 2024.
What are the program hours?

The program will take place Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 2:00PM.
Where will the program take place?

The program will primarily take place at the Directions for Youth and Family Crittenton Center annex building (3860 Kimberly Parkway, Columbus, OH 43232). Additional locations will include design firms and sites around Columbus, Ohio.
I have a family trip planned and may miss a few days. Can I still participate?

Yes. We understand that trips may be planned with family or outside obligations. We ask that interns communicate when they will be unable to attend. The program is only 6-weeks so long-term travel plans may exclude participation in the program. Please note that interns will not be paid for days they do not work. Additionally, the program will observe the 4th of July holiday.
Do interns need to provide their own supplies?

No. The program will provide any materials for the activities and project implementation.
Who will be staffing this program?

Two program coordinators will be available daily to support and mentor interns. Program coordinators are current college students in design related fields. All program staff will be required to obtain background checks and go through training to ensure the safety of interns. Additionally, NDC staff will oversee program coordinators and manage the day-to-day operations of the program.
Do interns need to provide their own lunch?

No, lunch will be provided to interns for the duration of the program. We request that any food allergies and/or dietary considerations be shared with program staff.
Does the program provide transportation?

The program will provide transportation for activities occurring during program hours (field trips, site visits, firm visits). Parents and/or guardians are responsible for pick-up and drop-off of interns. Some transportation assistance is available to those in need.
What is the dress code?

Interns are not required to dress formally for this program. However, we do ask that interns consider the activities and settings they will be in throughout the program. General Work Day: Please refrain from any clothing containing vulgar or inappropriate words or graphics. Interns are welcome to be more casual, but we ask that you avoid sleepwear, loungewear, or athleisure clothing (Example: jeans and a t-shirt, blouse, or polo shirt) Implementation Days: As we will be on site and getting our hands dirty, interns are welcome to dress in clothing that they are ok getting paint, dirt, or sweat on. Presentation Days/Firm Visits: As we will be entering a more professional setting, we request that interns dress appropriately for visits. Interns will be made aware of when these visits will take place. If additional support is required, please communicate with program staff.
How do SYC interns get paid?

Interns will be paid bi-weekly for hours worked. As part of the hiring process, interns can select to have funds deposited directly into a savings and/or checking account, or opt to receive a physical check.
How many participants will the program be taking?

The program intends to admit up to 12 program participants for a summer internship.
What does a Youth CoLab intern do?

Interns will engage in a variety of activities that increase their knowledge of various forms of design (architecture, planning, etc.) and apply their learning to a real-world design project in Columbus. This will include developing and presenting design ideas and implementing the selected ideas onsite before the end of the program. Interns will also develop resumes and portfolios and participate in a mock-interview at the close of the program. The program will also visit a variety of design firms to expose interns to the variety of career opportunities and projects possible with a design degree.
What safety precautions are in place?

In addition to requiring background checks, interns will be made aware of any safety procedures for the program on the first day of the program. Program staff will also maintain basic first aid supplies throughout the program. In accordance with Ohio Minor Labor Laws, interns will not be permitted to operate any power tools or heavy machinery, and will be monitored during any on-site implementation. Additional safety gear (masks, gloves, goggles, etc.) will also be provided to maintain intern safety. Interns will also be required to provide an emergency medical contact and declare any health considerations (i.e. diabetic, known allergies) to program staff at the start of the program.