Assisting Pod Staff with the day to day running of a Pod at the Juvenile Detention Center. For example: cleaning, programming, escorting residents for professional meetings and court. (2009)
Most common duties would be directing pod and giving orders to residents. Doing room searches 2x a day. Clothed searches any time a resident goes to the kitchen. M onitoring behavior and language of residents. (2009)
Students identified positive aspects of this placement
The contact you get to have with the juveniles, both one on one and in a group. (2009)
Working with troubled youth who are in need of care. Gaining knowledge of the new RAI and JDAI programs that are being implemented. (2009)
Learn a lot about the CJ system and you get the chance to work with kids that you are not used to being around. The staff is great to work with and very helpful. (2005)
Develop/strengthen skills in dealing with delinquent juveniles, learn how to practice safety and security within a secured facility and serve as a positive role model in the lives of troubled/at-risk youth. (2001)
Interaction between the juveniles and the staff. This is done through supervising meal times, recreational periods, school, court appointments and daily living routines. There is a constant warm atmosphere where one can tell that the staff truly cares about the kids and therefore, gain respect from the kids. (2000)
The staff is really great to work with. They are very friendly and open. You can talk to them about anything and ask any questions that you have. (1997)
I had the opportunity to work with many juveniles of diverse cultures and backgrounds in a community setting. (1995)
Students identified difficulties typical in this placement
They are in school from 8:30 - 2:30 M-F so unless you work all nights, you don't get as much time with the kids (2009).
Listening to the residents on the phone who have parents that have given up on them. Paying for parking can be a drag. Many people competing for the same jobs. (2009)
Seeing some of the kids who have mental issues. You have to get used to kids talking back to you and when they get out of hand. (2005)
The juveniles can be rather manipulative, agitated, aggressive, etc... as a result of being detained. It's important to never let your guard down because its amazing how fast they are able to get away with inappropriate behavior. Also, its necessary to note that often the juveniles will make insulting remarks that cannot be taken personally. (2001)
Restraining individuals is the most difficult part of working at JDC. As an intern, restraining is not expected but it is a hard thing to watch especially when a juvenile just 'snaps' and becomes angry and aggressive. (2000)
There are usually a lot of people that would like to intern here. Lots of people from the cities, don't wait until the last minute. (1997)
I found that it was difficult to find time to see all of my clients on a regular basis because I was so busy helping my supervisor with his overloaded caseload. (1995)