STUDENTS ATTEND BUSINESS EXPO TO HELP THEM BECOME CAREER READY
Students from The Phoenix Academy attended the final
Flame to Flight event at the Dr . Jim Vaszauskas Center for the Performing Arts on Feb . 22 . The Flame to Flight - No Excuses program is a five-month culminating activity based on the academy ’ s vision of preparing their students for college and career readiness . Over the past several months , the students have created portfolios , explored career options , practiced proper etiquette , participated in a financial reality fair , practiced their interview skills , and attended a business expo .
During the final event , the business expo , students listened to several business owners on their experience in the working world . They shared tips and tricks on how to succeed , interview dos and don ’ ts , as well as effective communication . All three topics are extremely important when it comes to being a working professional .
A few key takeaways from the keynote speaker , Shawn Serfass , included being willing to show up and keep commitments , finding a mentor , setting goals , continually growing , and surrounding yourself with the right people .
Deborah Su , a professional in the health care business development industry , shared that there are no foolproof ways to get a job ; it ’ s the work and personal action that you have to put forth in order to even land the first interview .
“ Get that interview and make the best first impression right away and do your research ,” Su said .
Amy Ryan , owner of Flying Squirrel Coffee Company , shared effective ways to communicate . This key skill is highly important , not only in the working world but also in regular everyday life . She shared key concepts of communication and highlighted the fact that what we say has three different meanings : what we said , what we meant , and what we heard .
“ Give yourself grace . Allow yourself to make mistakes ; it ’ s okay , but be willing to learn from those mistakes ,” Ryan said .
The day ended with food catered by Ben Barber Innovation Academy ’ s Savvy ’ s Bistro - Food With Educated Taste . Students enjoyed their day well spent with lunch and talking over what they learned during the morning session .
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