College Students Work to Explore Careers
Last summer EJ completed an incredible job of self-discovery as a camp counselor in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (S.T.E.M.) summer program at Stanford University. He worked with middle and high school students who were guided to the program through their parents’ selection or were returning campers who were passionate about the program.
What Students Can Learn Through Career Jobs
EJ found that it was easier to work with the high school students who were focused on exploring a career in S.T.E.M. occupations. These students were more engaged in the program and had more confidence when participating in various activities. Through these wonderful and challenging experiences, my son learned the following:
- He has incredible leadership skills.
- As he became more engaged in the program, the students were excited about their learning.
- It was amazing to observe the students’ performance and growth during the program.
- As an employee, EJ was excited to receive his first formal performance evaluation that reflected his leadership successes.
Reflection
Now EJ is busy with a demanding college year of upper division science classes. The confidence he gained during his summer employment continues to inspire him in his current career path of study, discovery, and growth.
May your children value their many learning experiences!
Yvette
Copyright © 2019 by GenParenting
Yvette King-Berg, is the Executive Director of Youth Policy Institute’s Charter Schools. She was the former California Charter Schools Association Vice-President of School Development and Outreach-Southern California. Ms. King-Berg has over thirty years of experience working with teachers, students, parents, and organizations in a variety of positions including Director, Assistant Director, Curriculum Advisor, Bilingual, and Title 1 Coordinators, classroom teacher (K-12) in Pasadena and LAUSD. She has been married for twenty-three years, and is the proud mother of her son, EJ, who attends UC Berkeley.