As the school year winds to a close, Edison juniors are doing more than just counting down the days to summer; they’re preparing to step into one of the most prestigious youth programs in New York City: the Bloomberg Arts Internship (BAI).
Last year, Edison had a record-breaking number of juniors participate in the Bloomberg Arts Internship, a program that brings together students from high schools across all five boroughs.
Run by the Studio Institute and funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the BAI program gives rising high school seniors the chance to explore the professional world through paid internships at leading cultural institutions across the city. From museums to theaters, students are placed in real working environments, learning the different careers in the arts while developing key workplace skills.
For many Edison students, this program is a game-changer. In addition to hands-on experience, interns receive college readiness support including guidance on writing personal essays, applying for financial aid, and preparing for interviews, along with professional development workshops that equip them for life beyond high school. In partaking in this internship, students will also earn Work-Based Learning (WBL) hours, which count toward their graduation requirements.
Ms. Rosario, Edison’s dedicated Career Advisor, who has been actively promoting the program for the past two years. “What makes the Bloomberg Arts Internship stand out is the compensation and the cultural exposure,” she explains. “The college prep support is phenomenal, and the experiences students walk away with are lifelong.” She encourages all juniors to apply, even if the application process feels intimidating. “It’s a lot of writing, but it’s worth it. Don’t let the process stop you—it’s an amazing opportunity.”
According to Ms. Rosario, students who thrive in the program are thoughtful, curious, and willing to step outside their comfort zones. “We look for students who can connect their artistic interests—whether it’s digital media, fashion, or even performing arts—to the broader creative world,” she says. She also emphasizes the value of preparation: “A strong essay, practice interviews, and a clear understanding of your own artistic voice can make all the difference.”
As Edison’s juniors take on this challenge, they’re not just preparing for college; they’re preparing to lead, create, and thrive in the arts and beyond
Accepted Junior: Arisha Rahman, Class of 2026
Arisha was introduced to the Bloomberg Arts Internship through a presentation in her shop class. A group of student interns from the previous year shared a video about the program, and her interest grew even more when her friend decided to apply as well. “That’s what really sparked my interest,” she shared.
To prepare her application, Arisha leaned on her support network. “I talked with my friend who was applying and with previous student interns about the entire process and what we needed to do.” Despite this preparation, she found the application to be challenging. “The most difficult part was definitely the length. It involved a lot of writing.”
Her interview process was more manageable. “My group interview went well,” Arisha said. “I spoke a few times and felt confident. It was all about getting adjusted. The one-on-one interview was even easier. My interviewer was very welcoming, and we were in a comfortable environment. I wasn’t nervous at all.”
Looking ahead, Arisha is excited about the possibilities this internship will unlock. “I want to gain experience in the art field and understand it better. This internship will help give me a clearer vision of whether or not I want to pursue a career in the arts and what type of arts I want to work with.”
The internship offers a wide range in the arts, from visual arts to film and architecture, which will help her narrow down her interests. “Because there are so many different areas to explore, I think this experience will really help me figure out what I want to do in the future,” she explained.
Arisha sees herself pursuing a career in the arts, especially since it connects directly to her current shop class. “I honestly like art, and I’m already getting exposure to it through my classes. Now, I’m getting even more experience through the internship.”
Behind the Scenes at Ballet Hispanico: Ameera Khan’s Experience
Bloomberg alumni Ameera was placed at Ballent Hispanico, where her work crossed multiple departments, including marketing, logistics, and event planning. Each day brought something new to her worksite. From organizing wardrobe pieces in the basement, working in spreadsheets, or designing masks for children attending events.
One of her most creative assignments involved developing a pitch for a new artistic invention. “Our group created a ballerina box that mimics dance moves,” she said with pride.
But what truly stayed with her was the BAAND Workshop, a community dance program that brought together people of all ages. “It was incredibly inclusive. Everyone—kids, adults, seniors got to be part of the arts. It reminded me how important access is, no matter who you are.”
She also found meaning in places like Materials for the Arts, where she saw how recycled items could become powerful works of expression. “I learned that art isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about messages, values, and purpose.”
Ameera encourages future interns to fully embrace the support system around them. “Ask for help. Your mentors and supervisors are there for you, whether it’s about your job or college prep. And don’t forget to build connections, network, make friends, and take in everything this experience offers.”
Life at the Jewish Heritage Museum: Omari Nurse’s Experience
Omari, another Bloomberg alumni was placed at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in Battery Park, where each day began early and ended with college readiness assignments at home. “From 9 to 5, I worked in the office and around the museum—filming, taking photos, designing promotional content, and helping with the website,” he explained.
What stood out most to him were the weekly cohort meetups. “Mondays and Fridays were the best. We went on art trips, met with mentors, and worked on presentations. It really felt like we were part of a family.”
The internship also shifted his perspective on the arts. “This program made me realize that there are meaningful, sustainable careers in the arts, especially in New York City. Creative work can bring people together and shape communities.”
One of the biggest challenges Omari faced was college essay writing. “It wasn’t easy. But I got through it by working on it steadily instead of cramming. It paid off.”
His advice for the next cohort of interns is simple: “Enjoy every single day. Looking back, it was one of the most fun summers I’ve ever had. But also, stay on top of your writing assignments and presentation work. They will catch up to you if you don’t.”
Behind the Scenes: Jordan Holland’s Creative Journey at MoMI
Jordan Holland spent his summer at the Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) alongside other fellow interns. His days were filled with hands-on media work and creative collaboration. “Tuesdays and Wednesdays, we’d record and photograph the summer camps happening at the museum,” he shared. “Then on Thursdays, we edited the footage into slideshows and videos that parents would view on Fridays.”
Each day brought something new. “One day we’d be making TikToks or podcasts, and the next, we were helping set up for a museum event,” Jordan explained.
For Jordan, the most memorable moments were the Bloomberg arts engagement days. “They built this sense of community and friendship that we all shared. It made me realize how special this opportunity really was.” But it was the last day of the program that hit the hardest. “It really felt like a chapter of life was ending. It was bittersweet. The internship helped me grow into myself.”
Before BAI, Jordan didn’t see himself as a creative person. “I didn’t think I had the creative mindset to keep up with my more artistic peers,” he admitted. “But now, I see that there’s a place for everyone in the arts. You don’t have to be the main creator—you can be the one who supports and helps bring a vision to life. That’s still part of the art.”
One of the biggest challenges he faced was creating a short film titled 101 Days to Make a Film. “We had bumps every step of the way, disagreements on the script, trouble finding a cast, scheduling conflicts. But through compromise and some honest conversations about what was actually possible, we ended up with a final product we were all proud of.”
Jordan has some heartfelt advice for the next class of interns: don’t isolate yourself. “BAI is full of brilliant people. Don’t just stick with your own group. I regret not talking to others sooner. Once I did, I realized how many great connections and friendships I had missed out on. So branch out. Get to know people. It’ll make your summer even more unforgettable.”
With another cohort set to begin, it is clear that BAI continues to shape the next generation of artists, leaders, and changemakers. If you are a junior with a passion for the arts or an interest in creative careers, make sure to apply. This is more than an internship; it is an opportunity that can shape your future.
