One of Fairfield's students has taken intelligent steps to getting her career on the right track.
Fairfield High School junior Gisel Lopez has joined the CareerWise Elkhart County team as a Youth Apprentice Ambassador. In that role, Lopez is helping connect more apprentices and employers in Elkhart County. Lopez noted a few aspects of her new role, and how that helps her grow.
Asked about what advice she would give someone considering apprenticeship, Lopez remarked, “I would just tell them to take the leap, even with all the doubts they might have. Taking this opportunity is going to benefit their future. Also, it's OK to ask for help and reach out to others, especially those with more experiences. You won't know everything on your first day, but be open to asking and reaching out for help so one day you can be the experienced one.
Her mentor, Jeffrie Hunter, then asked Lopez, “Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?” Lopez replied, “I chose to do an apprenticeship to prepare myself for the real world and get work life exposure, as well as discovering areas I'm interested in learning more about and furthering my knowledge in college with said interest. I want to build relationships with my community and familiarize myself with what Elkhart County has to offer. The experience that I'm getting now is going to shape my future career.”
Finally, Lopez was asked about skills she's learned so far. Her response, “I've learned that communication is the most important aspect and key to everything relating to a business, as well as adaptability in any situation that can occur and keeping your composure. Also, time management; being able to prioritize certain goals and tasks and holding yourself accountable for that.”