Sharing her success story with Exceptional Education students at the Center for Instruction, Technology and Innovation, program graduate Bev Humphrey discussed the challenges and triumphs of life after school.
Humphrey, a 2013 CiTi Exceptional Education graduate, spoke to students in three classes.
She highlighted some of the important qualities that employers look for in an employee and she fielded questions from the students who were interested in learning more about independent living.
“She is here to talk to you about what your life is going to be like when the school bus doesn’t come and pick you up anymore,” teacher Robin Rosenbaum said. “There are a lot of things you can do to get a job, but you have to make sure you’re always on time in order to keep that job.”
For Humphrey, who lives in an apartment on her own, she began in an entry-level position at McDonald’s.
Three years ago, she started as a dishwasher and quickly took on additional responsibilities, interacting with the customers in the lobby.
Today, she works the counter and takes orders.
“I need to make sure the order is correct and that I give them what they wanted,” Humphrey said.
After hearing a bit about her current job, students asked Humphrey questions about the job application process, the pay rate and her future goals.
“I’m looking for something more challenging,” Humphrey said. “I’m hoping to get a job at the dollar store in Central Square. You always want to wait to hear something from another job before you quit your current job.”
In addition to the work-related responsibilities, Humphrey also discussed the challenges of living alone.
“It’s a lot of responsibility to have an apartment and a job,” she said. “Cooking is my responsibility. I started out not knowing how to cook, but now I know a lot more.”
With a first-hand perspective on life after school, the students were ready to embark on several project-based learning activities regarding career exploration.
The unit will require students to write down their dreams, goals and skills.
Once that information is compiled, students will work with teachers to develop an action plan and examine potential job opportunities.
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