The yearly Malden Mayor's Summer Youth Employment Program (MSYEP) has opened for applications, allowing individuals aged 14-24 to apply from March 20 to April 30th. According to the City of Malden’s website, “The program collaborates with community, private, and government agencies to offer a diverse range of initial or early work experiences for Malden youth. The steering committee will strive to align your experience, preferences, and skill level to place you accordingly.”
MSYEP, explained by Director Kashawna Harling, follows a clear process. After applying, you'll get a confirmation email and if selected, you'll be invited to an interview to match your interests with a suitable job. Once chosen, you'll attend program orientation, complete payroll forms, and receive employer instructions. The program runs for six weeks, from July 8th to August 16th, with participants working up to 20 hours weekly.
Most of the Malden Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program’s (MYSEP) applicants came from kids of various ages at Malden High School. Junior Amber Benfield, who previously engaged in the program during her freshman year, remarked that she found the process of joining MSYEP to be simple and emphasized, "Being able to pick fields that I wanted to go into made it more appealing to join." Benfield expressed that she would likely participate again and encouraged others to do so, asserting, "It is better to be with others when you find a job rather than be alone."
Meanwhile, junior Merari Flores, who is interested in joining the program, stated that she discovered Malden's MSYEP through Kathy Maglio's classroom announcements. Flores explained that she was told by friends that the program provides great prospects for networking as well as employment opportunities. Flores went on to express her excitement for the program and the opportunity to engage with children.
The MYSEP ties all into the idea of community and inclusivity. Junior Julianna Lin explained that she is, “Doing the program again this year because of how inclusive they were.” Furthermore, Lin stated that she, “Definitely suggests other people to join as they consider interests and place you into a job that you would enjoy.” During the prior summer, Lin participated in the youth employment program and was employed by the Malden Teen Enrichment Center, a place she frequently visited and felt connected to, motivating her to stay on with MYSEP.
As Director Harling emphasizes, the MSYEP is "a good learning experience for youths that have not had a job before." In addition to work experience, the program provides educational workshops to equip participants with further skills for career success. Head over to the City of Malden's website to learn more and fill out the application before the deadline on April 30th, 2024.
