Southern High School's iGEN Academy Organizes Inspiring Young Professionals Panel
On December 17, 2024, the iGEN Business Academy at Southern High School orchestrated an engaging Young Professionals Panel, offering students a rare glimpse into various career paths and industry insights. The event, which took place in the school's auditorium from 9:30 AM to 11:20 AM, created a platform for business partners to interact with and inspire the upcoming generation of professionals.
Spearheaded by Financial Services instructors Jessica Rose and Emily Newton, the panel brought together a diverse array of emerging talents from different sectors. This two-hour session provided an exceptional chance for students to gain firsthand knowledge from professionals who have successfully navigated the early stages of their careers.
A Stellar Lineup of Panelists
The event featured an impressive group of young professionals, many of whom were proud Southern High School alumni:
Alexandra Hill-Blackburn, Brand Marketing Specialist at Red Bull
Heather Gregory, Learning Specialist with GE Appliances
Elizabeth McCracken, Dental Clinic Supervisor at UofL School of Dentistry
Jaden Bowman, Member Relations Officer III at Class Act Federal Credit Union
Germaine Randolph, Branch Manager at Class Act Federal Credit Union
Diamondique Moore, Member Relations Officer II at Class Act Federal Credit Union
Aaron Blackburn, Senior Tax Accountant and CPA at Cherry Beckaert
These accomplished individuals shared their experiences, offering students valuable insights into their respective fields and the realities of professional life.
“Take advantage of the Academies program. Build a good reputation for yourself while you’re in these walls.”
Making the Most of High School Years
The panelists emphasized the importance of taking advantage of opportunities during high school. Jaden stressed the value of the Academies program: "Take advantage of the Academies program. Build a good reputation for yourself while you're in these walls." His journey from high school involvement with Class Act to his current position exemplifies the success of making connections through the Academies of Louisville.
Panelists also highlighted the importance of developing good habits early. Heather emphasized maintaining good grades, while Diamondique encouraged punctuality. These habits, they noted, would serve students well in their future careers.
Navigating Post-High School Decisions
When discussing plans after high school, the panel offered diverse perspectives on college and alternative paths. Alexandra reassured students about individual paths to success, noting, "There is no timeline for success. Some graduates are successful right after graduating, some eight years later."
For those choosing college, Aaron emphasized the importance of networking and attending career fairs. Alexandra added that college allows students to create their own schedule, but it takes more discipline. She also advised against skipping classes, a habit that could hinder academic success.
Securing Internships and First Jobs
Many panelists highlighted unique paths to their first professional opportunities. Heather found her position through an internship with GE Appliances, which she secured through Bellarmine's career center, complementing her unpaid experience as a social media manager recommended by a professor. Similarly, Alexandra discovered her Red Bull internship via her college's career center, which eventually transformed into a full-time marketing position.
Elizabeth's journey demonstrated persistence in job hunting. "I sent my resume through Indeed to what seemed like a hundred openings," she explained. "I got an interview with the School of Dentistry and started at the front desk, working my way up." Diamondique and Jaden both leveraged their high school connections with Class Act Federal Credit Union, showing the long-term value of early professional networking through the Academies of Louisville.
Aaron emphasized the importance of strategic networking, crediting career fairs and college connections for helping him secure his initial accounting internship. Each panelist's story reinforced a common theme: successful career launches often result from a combination of preparation, networking, and remaining open to unexpected opportunities.
“Be somewhere you’re celebrated, not just tolerated.”
Thriving in Your Career
Once in the workforce, the panelists shared valuable lessons they've learned. Elizabeth advised, "Take every opportunity that comes your way...it's a lot of work but helps you to advance." Aaron stressed the value of experience: "Earn your stripes. Simply because I had the college degree didn't mean I was seen as equipped for the field." Heather highlighted the necessity of self-promotion: "Be your biggest self-promoter. No one else is trying to advance you in your career, so you have to make your career your own."
Life Lessons Beyond the Workplace
The panelists also offered advice that extended beyond career success. Germaine shared a powerful message that resonated with both students and fellow panelists: "Be somewhere you're celebrated, not just tolerated."
On financial responsibility, Elizabeth advised, "Learn to say no, even if it's important to you, like going out with friends." Alexandra echoed this sentiment, cautioning against credit card debt and emphasizing the importance of financial responsibility. Jaden encouraged bravery in life decisions: "Be courageous. I lost my scholarship when I decided to leave UofL but have blazed my own path."
Conclusion
The Young Professionals Panel at Southern High School provided students with invaluable insights into the journey from high school to successful careers. By bringing together accomplished alumni and local business leaders, the event exemplified the Academies of Louisville's commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry. This engaging session not only informed but also inspired the next generation of professionals, equipping them with practical advice and real-world perspectives to guide their future paths.