Exploration in Food Services and Hospitality students at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES recently had the chance to roll up their sleeves and experience working in the bakery department of Tops Friendly Markets on Genesee Street in Auburn. Over the course of two-week rotations, each student worked alongside bakery staff in a structured internship designed to build workplace confidence and skill.

Store Manager Dino DeYulio, along with Bakery Manager Teri York, Assistant Bakery Manager Raven Winters, and Cake Decorator Aleric (Cole) Ely, guided the students through a range of hands-on experiences.

“Students benefited in many ways,” said DeYulio. “It helps with the fear of the unknown as what is expected when they show up for work for the first time. What do employers expect? Is working hard? Can I do it?”

The internship included exposure to the full production process, starting with deliveries and moving through several versatile experiences. Along the way, students learned about food safety, labeling, and sanitation.

“Students then get to produce actual products,” DeYulio said. “Some of the skills they worked on were making products from scratch, decorating, packaging, labeling and displaying products.”

According to DeYulio, the students made a positive impression on the team.

“The students were all engaged, respectful, and eager to learn,” he said. “Our staff looked forward to sharing their knowledge and skills with the students, which gave them a positive sense of accomplishment.”

DeYulio also emphasized the long-term value of the program. “These students are potential candidates for employment. What a great way to see what they can bring to the table.”

Kelly Bryant, the program’s teacher, agreed that the internship provided powerful learning experiences.

“Through their internships at Tops, students developed greater confidence, independence, and a strong sense of responsibility,” said Bryant. “They gained valuable exposure to real-world work environments and had the opportunity to interact with a diverse range of individuals, including both customers and employees. All participating students expressed that they thoroughly enjoyed their time at Tops and wished the internship period had been longer.”

DeYulio hopes other businesses will consider offering similar opportunities. “I think the program is great for the students and the business. I would encourage others to take on students that are interested in working in your specific field.”

To learn more about the Work-Based Learning program at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES, please contact Kimberly Stevers at kstevers@cayboces.org or at (315) 253-0361, ext. 5117.