TJ Maxx Interns Explore the Retail Industry

For twenty year olds Katrina Kirkwood and Gifted Mullens, newly landed internships at the TJ Maxx store on State St. has opened their eyes to the complexities of retail.

“I love it!,” said Katrina, a senior at the Ada S. McKinley campus. “I’m learning new things everyday and I love moving around to different departments and meeting new people!”

“This is the first real job that I’ve had,” said Gifted Mullens, a senior at Youth Connection Leadership Academy campus. “Already I’m more focused and disciplined about being punctual and how I use my time. I like retail and I’m definitely interested in this becoming a part-time job.”  Read more

YCLA Student Daydrin Williams Gains New Perspective in Ghana

For two weeks YCLA student Daydrin Williams woke up to roosters crowing and a view of the Atlantic Ocean. One of five Chicago high school students in the Sankofa Youth Enrichment Program, Daydrin was in Ghana to experience its diverse cultures and deliver educational supplies to orphan youth.
The trip was Daydrin’s first outside the U.S., and it gave her a new perspective for her own life. “It made me respect everything that I have,” said Daydrin. “People there did not have things that I have and they were still happy,” she added.  Read more

YCLA Grad Michael Johnson Pursues Career in Visual Animation at IADT

Recent YCLA graduate Michael Johnson heads for the Loop this month as an incoming freshman at the International Academy of Design and Technology. With help from his advisor at YCLA about career choices, a couple of days to complete the admissions application, and $50 from his mom for the application fee, Michael successfully secured a slot in the animation program.
“I was a bit nervous because everything is kind of new to me. I was nervous about taking out loans, but it’s for my education and my future. I’m ready to focus on something that I enjoy.”  Read more