Building the Future Workforce of SC!
Youth Sleuth presents: Another Reason Why We Do What We Do!
By Amanda Wagner, PYC Career Coach
The big day has arrived and graduation brings a broad range of emotion. The smiles, the tears and the laughter filled the hallways of West Ashley High School in North Charleston on Thursday, July 13 as graduation for Charleston Adult Education was about to begin.
For most graduates in attendance, attaining their GED was no easy task. Marla Barnett shared with the audience her journey through Adult Education and Palmetto Youth Connections. Marla, like many participants of Palmetto Youth Connections, had to make
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Marla and her mentors from L-R: Career Coaches Marett Bishop and Inger Sheppard with Adult Ed Staff Tamequa Durant |
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In her keynote speech, Marla encouraged her fellow graduates to continue to move forward and grow in a positive direction. Marla said "We are here today to mark a new beginning, we have over-come some of the speed bumps that life has to offer and we are moving forward in a new and exciting direction. Marla continued "Don't let the noise of others' opinions drown our own inner voice. Set your mind to do great things and great things will happen to you. Most importantly, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become."
The career coaches, adult education staff and supervisors are all so proud of the students like Marla have had to overcome obstacles to attain their GED. It's the students like Marla who work hard, stay motivated and hurdle over every obstacle in their path that inspire us all.
March 2011 Youth Sleuth presents: A Day in the Life of a PYC Student By MaryAnn Sewell, PYC Area Manager December 2010 was one of the coldest winters in Charleston. As we tuck ourselves in the warmth of our beds anticipating what the holidays would bring, Kenneth “Gregory” Rhyne, his wife Ashley, and their four month old baby Benjamin can only look out of the windows of their family car. February 2011 is one of the warmest early springs in Charleston. This time, little Benjamin has grown, cooing, and giving everyone the most contagious smile. He is now crawling on the floors of their new home. In one season, Gregory was able to earn his GED, receive a Gold level Work keys certificate, and secure a permanent full-time job. In one season, a Palmetto Youth Connections student received a “life makeover.” This is why we do what we do! Employment Profile: Parts Sales Manager, Autozone in North Charleston, SC. Duties: Advise customers with purchases and manage staff. Most Rewarding Experience with PYC: “Finding the ability to have a full-time job with a steady paycheck and security.” Advise to all PYC Students: “Whatever obstacles you face, keep trying. Have the motivation, effort, and keep a positive attitude!” Future Plans: “In addition to obtaining the A+ certification, I plan to receive training so someday I can own a family business that provides computer support and repair services.” “Thank you for all the help, support, and kindness!” Supervisor, Jacqueline Rivera: “Gregory is a good person and a hard worker. In the little time he has been with the company, Gregory has shown initiative to learn a lot!” Favorite Quote: “If you do not expect the unexpected, you will not find it, for it is not to be reached by search or trail.” -Greek Philosopher Heraclitus
Message to the PYC Staff:
