HKS Student Life Provides Work Experience
By Jessica Atkinson, Coordinator, Marketing and Community Relations, Office of Institutional Advancement
For students across the country, their first part-time job is a rite of passage. But more importantly, it is an opportunity that builds character and allows for the development of skills essential to future employment; not to mention the extra spending money that is earned along the way!
Students at the Helen Keller School of Alabama (HKS) have recently begun serving their school community as Student Life Work Experience Aides, an exciting job opportunity designed to develop the workforce skills needed as they begin their transition toward adulthood.
“The 2023-2024 school year was our first year having the Student Life Work Experience Program in the dorms,” said Chris Tomlin, Student Life Manager, HKS. “The students who participated enjoyed having the opportunity to earn money while working on campus and contributing to their school community through our program. But more importantly, they learned job skills that will help them successfully find employment after graduation.”
One HKS student, George Meyer, worked with the dorm staff to count and deliver the supplies requested throughout the Student Life Program.
“I like assisting with the dorm supplies and being able to earn money,” said George. “It also allowed me to help other students while getting some exercise.”
In addition to organizing and delivering supplies, Student Life Work Experience Aides were also tasked with helping in the HKS cafeteria, known as The Eagle's Nest, by cleaning the tables after dinner.
“Our plan for next school year is to have more individualized jobs that will help students learn employment skills in an area they are interested in,” added Chris. “More individualized jobs will build on each student’s strengths and help them to further develop their job skills.”
With these job skills, these students will be prepared to soar from The Eagles Nest to employment after graduation!