In the past few years, the ADM District has implemented a unique high school course designed to prepare students for their professional post-high school futures. This course places students in a variety of internships within the workforce, including Marketing, Finance, Medical, Engineering, etc. However, Senior Genevieve Book has a very unique role, as she navigates two facades in her daily life.

Book is planning to attend the University of Iowa next fall, majoring in Exercise Science, on a Pre-Physical Therapy track. She had a plan for herself and knew she wanted to go into Physical Therapy; however, she realized that having experience for her future career would be a great way to be more prepared for her post-high school plan. 

Book was very interested in the program from the beginning: “I heard of another student doing an internship with a physical therapy clinic, and I wanted to go into physical therapy.” She already had big aspirations and ideas for herself; however, she thinks that WBL is a great fit for students who not only know what they are going into, but also a way for students to participate in career exploration if they do not have a path paved for themselves.

Book is currently placed at Athletic Physical Therapy in Adel, where she serves as an intern, but not just any intern. She is in a unique scenario where she is being paid by the company, similar to being an employee. Athletico is paying Book $12 an hour for working with patients and helping out around the facility.

However, when asked about her favorite part of her internship placement, Book did not mention the financial benefits, “I love getting to work with all different kinds of patients. Even just meeting and talking to people makes my day.” Book merely enjoys the experience, mentioning that the course is for people who want to strive toward their career goals, not prioritizing money or gain. 

“ From my placement, I have learned a lot about the behind-the-scenes of the physical therapy occupation. I’ve gotten a lot of front desk experience, which is very unique and is likely something I won’t have access to in the future.”  Book highlights the unique experiences she has gained from this course; she is able to insert herself into professional environments, all while being a high school student. Additionally, Book mentioned she is preparing to get her DMACC Associates this Spring, adding more onto her plate.

High School student, College student, and an intern, Book has done it all. Her advice to students looking to take opportunities in internships is, “Put your all into your internship, because you never know who you will meet and what the relationships you form can help you with in the future. This applies to life too, just take all the opportunities you are given.” Luckily for students, WBL is now open to applications, offering many opportunities for students.

“I think students should apply for WBL, especially if they think they know what career they want to go into, because it can help them to get experience and build relationships that can help them in their future career.” Book said. She recommends everyone take the opportunities while they are present, because why not?

Apply to WBL now: WBL APPLICATION (Due March 1st, 2026)