The COVID-19, or the novel coronavirus, pandemic, has severely impacted the lives of the Class of 2020. From graduation ceremonies and proms being canceled to universities and primary schools working on strategies to continue remote learning while they learn to adapt, students are among some who have been hit the most by the public health crisis.
Outside of traditional ceremonies, it has also affected the job market for new graduates leaving college. According to a new report by Glassdoor, internship openings have been cut by 52% since March with over 4 million jobs being lost as a direct result of the pandemic. To help students and graduates with the transition, HP has announced that it will be launching a new virtual development experience aimed toward HBCU students.
Starting this summer, HP will launch its Summer Scholars series, a free developmental series to help students gain technical and professional skills to help them in businesses ranging from learning how to perform software data analysis, understanding how trends influence the global market, and discovering job opportunities at HP. The company is currently working with a group of deans from various HBCUs around the country to encourage students to apply. The program runs from June 15 – July 24.
In addition to the program, the tech giant has donated over $1 million in direct relief efforts for communities impacted by COVID-19 in addition to using its 3D printing technology to produce equipment for healthcare professionals.
“As a global company, we understand the importance of acting globally while executing at the local level,” said Christoph Schell, chief commercial officer for HP to Channel Futures. “Rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach, we are taking a customized approach specific to the unique and evolving dynamics at the market and country level, depending on a variety of factors.”
For students interested in applying to the program, they can visit the website or email hpsummerscholars@hp.com.