A door-opening opportunity in STEM: A CSF Scholar interns at Microsoft

Microsoft’s paid summer internship program, the Microsoft Discovery Program, provides valuable work experience for recently graduated high school students who are enrolled in college in the fall. CSF recently visited Microsoft and caught up with a few CSF Scholars in the program, including Harmony, a graduate of Tyee High School in SeaTac who will attend the University of Washington this fall to study human-centered design and engineering, to become a UX designer.

“This internship has been a wonderful opportunity for me,” expressed Harmony. “As it allows me to work on projects similar to what UX designers do, such as wireframing, creating storyboards and crafting user personas.”

The Microsoft Discovery Program aims to develop technical and career readiness skills, provides mentorship from Microsoft employees and gives students the space to discover their passions. For Harmony, it has been a dream realized. 

Ever since she was in 6th grade, Harmony has aspired to work at Microsoft and in STEM. While in middle school and high school, Harmony participated in an after-school Techbridge Girls Program, and in 2022, she was named Washington STEM’s Rising Star for the King County Region. 

Microsoft, once just a dream, is now a stepping stone to my desired career. This experience holds immense value for me as it has made me believe that with determination and passion, my future holds limitless possibilities.

College Success Foundation is honored to have been selected as one of Microsoft’s partner organizations for the Microsoft Discovery Program. The program also includes students who are being served by Computing for All, Washington MESA, Rainier Scholars, and Technology Access Foundation. At the outset of the program’s creation, Microsoft partnered with these community-based nonprofits to ensure outreach to students historically underrepresented in tech.

“Internships play a vital role in providing dynamic real-life experiences and career-connected learning,” remarked CSF President and CEO James Dorsey. “Through our partnership with Microsoft, we are excited to be empowering the next generation of STEM leaders.”

During CSF’s visit, the Discovery Program hosted a fireside chat with Corporate Vice President of Philanthropies, Kate Behncken, the interns and community partners gathered to talk about the program and answer questions from the interns. When discussing the importance of mentors and saying “yes” to experiences, Kate acknowledged that: “You can learn from everyone you meet if you’re open to it.”

Harmony hopes other students will connect with CSF because of the opportunities and support the advisors provide.

I am grateful for the doors CSF opened for me and the chance to explore my passions. I have absolutely loved my experience at Microsoft. I have gained invaluable firsthand experience in the tech industry through this internship.