M-1 Rail Project A Classroom For Summer Interns (VIDEO)

By Edward Cardenas

DETROIT (CBS Detroit) - As planners, engineers and construction crews began work this summer on the M-1 Rail Streetcar project in Detroit, the inaugural class of interns worked beside these professionals.

The class of 10 interns was comprised of college and high school students and graduates who received an "intense hands-on experience," according to officials.

"They are not just learning about the project, but also learning about the craft," said Sommer Woods, director of external relations. "That cultivates them to have opportunities and experiences for the next part of their lives."

Alexandria Ambrose, who attends Renaissance High School, helped manage the main office worked in the finance department.

"I'm really happy to be part of it," said Ambrose, who hopes to major in engineering or kinesiology. "Having this experience on my application, or on a resume ... will help me."

Raina Baker, a recent journalism graduate of Howard University, has learned about building relationships and leveraging media relationships in her "hands-on" internship.

"M-1 rail is a unique project for Detroit," said Brenda Baker, who also has been learning about business but also the city. "It helped me learn the city more. We traversed all downtown, the New Center all the areas that will be impacted by construction."