At Schools That Can, we’re passionate about young people building real-world connections and relationships with professionals across industries, helping students gain exposure to different career paths, develop the skills needed to ace a job interview, and imagine themselves in the world of work. Watching volunteers from a variety of fields connect with students is a highlight of our work…and we’re excited to highlight those volunteers with our Volunteer Spotlight Series! We’ll be talking to STC volunteers about their own education to employment journeys, best advice they’ve ever received, and more.
Interested in volunteering? Fill out our interest form here!
This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.
This past semester, 11 graders in Chicago got a dual lesson in anatomy and career pathways when chatting with our fantastic guest speaker, Physician’s Assistant MichelleLynette H.! Read more about it here, and check out MichelleLynette’s answers below!
In a few sentences, tell us about your education to employment pathway.
My first job was as a transportation volunteer in a hospital at 14 yo and my first paid medically related job was a phlebotomist at age 22 once I graduated from college
What’s been a career highlight for you so far?
Allowing students to shadow me in person, pre-Covid.
In just a sentence, what’s the best career or work tip you’ve ever gotten?
Take your lunch break everyday!
What was your favorite part about volunteering with students?
The well thought-out questions and sincere interest.
What advice would you give a young person building their future or finding their path?
Dedicate at least 2 weeks/year to shadowing or volunteering with professionals doing what your career path may lead you to.