Apply to Next Up, a Career Exploration Program for 18 to 24-year-olds!

Next Up, a paid career exploration and internship program for Cambridge residents who are 18-24 years old, is recruiting participants for its 2027 cycle, which will run from January - April 2027. The program helps young adults figure out their next step, which might include going back to school, enrolling in a training program, or finding a better job - all while getting paid to participate! Next Up is offered through the Department of Human Service Programs' Office of Workforce Development.

You are eligible for Next Up if:

• You are a Cambridge resident who is 18-24 years old
• You graduated high school or have a HiSET / GED
• You are not a full-time student
• You are unemployed or working a job with limited growth options
• You want support coming up with a plan for the future

Program Highlights:

• 3-month commitment
• 20 hours / week paid internship. Pay is $18 per hour
• Paid weekly workshops
• Career exploration
• Skill-building and self-reflection exercises
• Team building
• 1:1 sessions with a career coach

To apply to Next Up, fill out an online application. Interviews for the 2027 program cycle will begin in November 2026, though applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.

Interested in hosting a Next Up participant?

The Office of Workforce Development (OWD) is looking for internship sites that can provide 20 hours / week of work to young adults in the program. OWD will pay intern wages and offer coaching support, while worksite partners provide supervision and meaningful work.

If you have questions about participating in Next Up or hosting a participant, contact Nadia Davila, Youth Services Coordinator, at [email protected] or call/text 617-651-2139.