Our Students Are Diamonds

Arches is open to high school students.

Arches is cohort-based and begins with a Launch Day. The aerage amount of time a student participates in a cohort is 2-3 years, depending on the amount of time spent in the hard skill phase and the career path chosen.

In terms of money, thanks to our partnering organizations, participation is free. Some of the program tracks also allow the student to be paid with stipends and paid internships. However, there is an investment required of each student in terms of effort, commitment, and time. The result is well worth the effort!

No! Part of the Arches process helps you understand your strengths, options, and interests. Knowing those things is ke to having a fulfilling career direction; so we encourage you to apply even if you're not sure what life after high school will look like.

Arches uses a diverse set of experiences, workshops, and small group/individual coaching. Each Arches Cohort starts with a Launch Day. With a mix of leading presenters, activities, and discussions, you'll meet the coaches and other students that you'll build relationships with over time. After the Launch Day, most of the work in Arches is a combination of small group and individual interactions with your coach as well as participation in Arches Experience Events. In the later stages of the Arches Experience, most students will participate in paid internships with partner companies as well.

The amount of time required changes somewhat as your cohort progresses, and each experience is different. For most, it's good to expect a weekly meeting and some one-on-one virtual communications with your coach. We expect that students will have sports, other work, and outside activities and we do our best to work within those commitments.

Simply, the goal is to help students develop the skills and experience to match the organizations' needs for career-minded, high-performing employees. This doesn't happen overnight, but through a long-term approach to skill-building, networking, and real-life experience. This approach ensures that students are prepared to make a difference for the long-term.

Arches' partner companies come from the technology, construction, creative, and non-profit sectors. While salaries and compensation vary among industry and job type, most career-level jobs in the partner companies are in the $80,000 to $150,000 range. These jobs don't happen right away; but with effort, drive, and dedication, they are achievable.