We’re kind of different, in a good way. Like independent music is different from mainstream radio. We’re like that, only in education.

We run two Hands-On Learning programs. Our proven approach is simple but powerful: give young people hands-on learning in the real world and the support of caring advisors and watch their independence, self-reliance and readiness for college and life grow naturally. And it’s pretty fun as well!

We are a not-for-profit and opened our doors in 1969 with a gap year program, Internship Year (back before the term “gap year” was even coined). In 1989 we adopted Internship Year’s successful approach to launch a college access and leadership program for local high school students, Youth Academy. The results have been equally impressive.

In 2009, Dynamy proudly joined YOU Inc., expanding our ability to support each student’s educational and personal goals. This partnership helps carry Dynamy’s approach into the future.

We’re proud that our unique approach has benefitted thousands of students and their families, as well as the Worcester community. These gains help young people make clear choices about their next educational step and the kind of life they want to create. 

Internship Year
Internship Year is a hands-on gap year program for students who want to learn differently. For an academic year or semester, students participate in an array of real-world activities that increase self-awareness and self-reliance, and lead to a confident transition to higher education. Internship Year includes adventure challenge experiences; full-time internships chosen from over 200 placements; residential life in a supervised apartment; individual advising and a personalized plan for success; community service; optional college seminars; and career and college counseling. Contact us for more information or complete an application.

Youth Academy
Youth Academy is a five-year leadership and college access program for promising Worcester high school students whose family meets maximum income guidelines. The program is designed to ensure that these young people reach their full academic and career potential by increasing their self-reliance, leadership skills and college literacy. Youth Academy includes advising; internships; adventure challenge experiences; academic enrichment and tutoring, community service; parent involvement, class and community meetings; and college preparation and counseling. Youth Academy students are first generation college attendees, and nearly 80% of the program’s graduates attain a degree. The program’s graduates are eligible for need-based tuition scholarships from nine member institutions of the Colleges of Worcester Consortium. The program is offered to students at no cost, and is funded through contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations. Students are nominated and apply in the 8th grade. Contact us for more information.