A Special Thank You to JA Intern, Ivan!
This school year, we had the pleasure of working with Ivan, an outstanding intern from Opportunities Academy, Collegiate Academies' rigorous, full-day program for college-aged students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ivan's dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work have left a significant mark on our team at Junior Achievement (JA). As we wrap up the year, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Ivan for his invaluable contributions.
Ivan joined us with a keen interest in gaining real-world experience, and he has certainly made the most of his time here. From assisting with daily tasks to participating in larger projects, Ivan's commitment and positive attitude have been appreciated. His work ethic and willingness to learn have been exemplary, and we have no doubt that he has a bright future ahead of him.
Ivan says he especially enjoyed his time in JA BizTown helping other students who spend a day running JA’s simulated city: “I was starting to get the hang of handling it on my own, teaching students how to make buttons. I’m very grateful how you guys have helped me grow more to help BizTown students with questions that they need answered."
At Junior Achievement, we are dedicated to fostering work readiness among students. Our initiatives are geared towards providing hands-on experiences that prepare young people for the workforce. Opportunities Academy, where Ivan hails from, plays a crucial role in preparing students for life beyond the classroom. The academy focuses on equipping young individuals with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen career paths. Their comprehensive programs are designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, making them an ideal partner for the work of JA.
Ivan's biggest accomplishment as a JA intern was his ability to develop his communication skills with students and new people: "I got the hang of talking to students when I’m in BizTown…I got used to introducing myself to people, managing to speak for myself."
He also learned technical skills, such as using a printer and creating flyers with Canva: " I was learning how to create more things on the computer by using Canva. I managed to make some flyers for each time we get to do a little event or activity."
Ivan's growth and achievements during his internship highlight the importance of these initiatives. His journey from Opportunities Academy to Junior Achievement exemplifies the successful collaboration between educational institutions and real-world businesses in preparing students for the future. Reflecting on his experience, Ivan shared, "It was fun…It reminded me of the time when I was getting ready to go somewhere with my family. Y’all [were] like family."
As we conclude this school year, we once again thank Ivan for his hard work and dedication. We look forward to seeing all the great things he will accomplish in the future. Ivan, you have been an integral part of our team, and we wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Keep up the fantastic work!