During my high school years, I struggled to decide on a career path or choose a college. What mattered to me was finding a career I loved, something that didn't feel like work.
I enjoyed making movies with my brothers using our old VHS-C camcorder. By my senior year, I decided I wanted to go to college to learn how to make movies, aiming to get paid for doing something I loved.
I know many high school students are unsure about their future careers, which can be intimidating. So, I always take the opportunity to share my career journey with them.
My older brother, Greg, teaches for the Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG) program in Indiana. This national nonprofit helps high school students who've faced challenges graduate and succeed. Greg teaches at Eastern Hancock High School in Charlottesville, IN (Go Royals!).
Recently, I spoke to Greg's classes about working at a marketing agency, being a video production specialist and becoming a certified drone pilot. The students, from grades 9-12, had varied backgrounds and interests. The students had excellent questions, and while none showed a direct interest in video production, they were keen on drone flying and licensure.
Greg has been a JAG instructor for 11 years, impacting many students' lives. However, the program is facing a shortage of instructors. It used to require a bachelor's degree for the position, but now, due to this shortage, an associate degree suffices. In fact, one of Greg's 20-year-old students was recently hired at another Indiana high school with just an associate degree.
Despite these challenges, the JAG program continues to thrive, offering vital support to at-risk students. My experience was fulfilling, and though I may never know the full impact of my visit, I hope I showed them that it's possible to have a career doing what you love.
A big thanks to my employer, Marketing Essentials, who allowed me to utilize my Pay It Forward benefit to take a day to volunteer and help educate students on future opportunities.
