You’re Hired! JA events prepare youth for life after high school
In today’s economy, hearing “You’re hired!” is welcome news. Unfortunately, for many students graduating from high school this year, it will be difficult to find employment. To help combat the workforce skills gap, University of Phoenix and Junior Achievement partnered for the “JA You’re Hired!” events in Tempe and Chicago.
More than 760 students got a leg up on the competition by enrolling in the “JA You’re Hired!” program. For weeks leading up to competitive events, students practiced with business volunteers the skills taught in JA’s curriculum. Students held mock interviews, team building and creative marketing exercises, and practiced their elevator pitches. At the competitive events presented by University of Phoenix, students were selected to put their practice to work. They focused on job aptitude and competence, business networking, work readiness skills and leadership. Apollo and University of Phoenix volunteers coached students through the events and offered real-world guidance and feedback.
“University of Phoenix is built on the belief that education enables individuals to improve their lives,” says Dr. Bill Pepicello, president of University of Phoenix. “These kids are our future, and University of Phoenix is committed to helping them achieve success the same way we help our University students — by providing them with the practical, real-world knowledge needed to compete in a growingly diverse economy.”
