The Rural Lifeworld as a Pathway to Career Identity: Lessons From a Non-School Internship Study

Abstract

This case examines two Appalachian Ohio organizations outside the boundaries of formal schooling that address issues of youth outmigration and sustainable community development through non-school internships. Twenty-five participants who completed internships from 2016–2020 were interviewed on topics related to their career pathways, social capital acquisition, and community connections. This case relates to the 3rdwave of economic development which has elevated social capital and cross-sector collaboration, but also the emerging 4thwave of economic development that finds communities prioritizing people and “place-making”. The key finding — participants’ career narratives — indicates place plays an emotional and material role in fostering entrepreneurship education and similar forms of workforce development in rural areas.