New and Improved CI

Earlier this month CI student ambassadors Georgia Burkwell and Daniel Macias visited Victorville's Office to capture some photos for the new Career Institute website.The office offers local youth a great stepping stone towards their careers by providing them with computers and guidance from CI mentor Jennifer Martinez.Click here to view the new and improved Career Institute web page http://www.cinow.org.

The Youth What?

The Youth Grant Makers program! 'Tis the season of new beginnings. It's fall and it's kick-off season for the Youth Grant Makers program. We've partnered with the Apple Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Community Foundation in an attempt to both cultivate young philanthropists and to allow youth tho practice organized philanthropy by engaging in this leadership program. The kick-off date is October 10th. Brace yourselves. 

From PG&E to the Truss Company

Michael Lagatta worked with the Career Institute from July 2014 until last week when he was offered a job building trusses at the Truss Company in Hinkley.  Michael completed work experience and life skill training through out our Hinkley training program working 40 hours per week at $9/hour, and actively participating in weekly trainings that included resume and cover letter prep as well as mock interviews, Bring Your A Game to Work, and many others. Michael was thankful for the opportunities and experience Career Institute has given him and enjoys his new (permanent) position at the Truss Company.
-Tim

Interview with on of Barstow's new WIA Youth: Jonathan Avina

Jonathan Avina

Jonathan Avina

Jonathan is currently attending Barstow Community College majoring in Chemistry and Physics. One of his favorite hobbies is playing music.

Interview

Q: What made you decided to join the Career Institute WIA Program?

Avina: I decided to join the Career Institute because I thought it would be a good program for me.

Q: What do you hope to learn from the Career Institute? 

Avina: I'm hoping that I will learn skills that will benefit me in the long run.

Q: In what ways do you hope the Career Institute will help you?

Avina: I hope that the Career Institute will help push me forward in my life journey.

Career Institute Barstow's Potential Student Ambassador for 2015: Socorro Castellanos!

Socorro Castellanos

Hello, all I wanted to share my recent interview with Ms. Socorro Castellnos (Picture on the Left) Barstow's potential Student Ambassador for 2015. A little background on Socorro, she is currently attending Barstow Community College as a full-time student, and is majoring in Molecular Biology. Socorro is also the founder and President of the Science Club at Barstow Community College and has recently been nominated for a Humanitarian Award from the City of Barstow!

Q: Why would like or choose to be a Student Ambassador for the Career Institute?
S.C.: I want to be an Ambassador because it seems like a great program. I really believe that I can be a leader and I know that I can lead people in the right direction because the Career Institute has already provided the correct training to do so.
Q: What do you think you will enjoy about the ambassador program?
S.C.: The thing that I believe I will enjoy the most is meeting new people. I think it's wonderful that the Ambassador's from all the other sites come together from time to time and interact.
Q: In what ways do you hope/has the Career Institute helped you?
S.C.:I believe the Career Institute will help me be a bit more social and help me open up and reach out to our community.

New Success!

Daniel Macias

“I would define my success as a step ahead then i was yesterday and constantly progressing. Attending Cal Poly Pomona as Hospitality major has put me on the right path for success”-Daniel Macias

 

            Student Ambassador Daniel Macias first enrolled into the Career Institute summer of 2011; and hasn’t stopped improving his future. His biggest accomplishments is having the opportunity to work for the Sheraton hotel after his work experience hours were through, and being awarded employee of the year for the Sheraton Hotel in 2013. His current accomplishment is having the privilege to study abroad in Italy and develop new skills in the culinary field.

            Currently, Daniel is keeping his eye on the prize and engage in as many activates in both work and school to become fully involved with his community. While mentoring students through the Career Institute, has helped Daniel grow as a person and make a indifference in today’s youth.

 

“The Career Institute play a vital role in sculpting my path to success and has supported with any roadblocks that have come my way. Honestly, I don’t know where I would be today without their guidance and investment in my future.”-Daniel Macias

A new look in Barstow.

The Career Institute in Barstow has recently moved into a new office on campus (visit us now at the Career & Transfer Center in room C42B), and has decided to complete a full door display.

Our display will advertise that we are the Career Institute, as well as some motivational words. We will also be adding a flyer holder/display so that anyone has access to everything our Barstow office offers.

Stay tuned for our progression over the next few weeks. -Tim

2 Offices Down, 2 More to go!

 

Big Bear Office Done!

 

Student Ambassador Georgia Burckel Adventured up the mountain to capture more photos for our new website! She took pictures of the Career Institute location, students studying inside the classroom, and of our new mentor Lisa with her student workers.

More great photos are headed your way!



New Success!

 

Student Jaime Gonzalez is a graduate of Ontario High School, and is currently in Career Institute’s Hospitality and Management program. Graduating this program in August 2014, he has already landed his first job as a FULL TIME engineer at the Double Tree hotel in Claremont! He feels he is successful today by being the first in his class to be offered a full time position. To help his future success, he has continued in the Hospitality and Management program to teach his life skills, time management, and build a resume. He states his biggest challenge in his life was having no experience in finding a job. With the guidance of the Career Institute he was able to not only learn how to search for a job, but find a job in a hotel that helped jump start his career.

“This program has been an eye opener for me. Kids now a day have no clue how to build a resume or even find a job; the career institute guided me to accomplish these things.”-Jaime Gonzalez

Summer Success!

Frankie training at Staples job site

Frankie Adams was referred to Career Connections (Summer Work Program) through Career Institute in June of 2014. He started his work experience on June 6, 2014 at Staples in Victorville. Within the first week, Frankie impressed the Staples management team. He successfully completed his hours in August and was directly asked to apply for a permanent position with Staples. Frankie Adams was then hired on September 8th and promptly began his training, that day! He is now a permanent employee of Staples in Victorville where he will now be able to contribute to the financial stability of his family.

Congratulations Summer Class of 2014!

On Friday night, August 29th, Career Institute hosted a wonderful graduation to honor and recognize each Career Institute student as they receive 5 certificates they have earned through 8 weeks classes and work experience. We had former students Pedro Rodriguez, and Student Ambassadors Georgia Burckel and Daniel Macias speak to help motivate these graduates to push forward with their own successful lives. We also had guest speaker Pete Lesser (Sheraton General Manager) were we got to learn more about his journey through the hotel industry, also his farewells and gratitude's for all the hard work our students put forth at the Sheraton Hotel. We lastly had Mentor Lori Pilarick say her 'final words' to her students and presented them their certificates. What a fulfilling and exciting night for Rancho's Hospitality and Management class. Congratulations Summer class of 2014!

One Step Closer

On the eighth of August, a group of students, 15 participants from Career Institute, took a step towards the finish line. At the Community Services Council in Victorville, 15 students from Career Institute completed REACH Centers orientation for the Certified Nursing Assistant program. They learned about what is expected from them during this course and received supplies to help them succeed such as textbooks, uniforms, and other tools they will need. With a little patience, focus, and plenty of studyingand practice, they'll be well prepared for the state certification test on October 11, 2014 in Rancho Cucamonga. 

From Junior College to College Graduate

Sarah Orawczyk grew up in Barstow, California.  

Sarah attended Barstow Community College, and after graduating in May 2011 with multiple Associate’s Degrees including: Business, Computer Science, Management, and Social Science; she transferred to California State University, Fullerton.  

While attending Barstow Community College, she was an active participant in the Career Institute, and also worked on-campus as a tutor in the Tutorial Center on-campus.  

Sarah graduated from CSU Fullerton in December 2013 with her Bachelor’s degree in Radio-TV-Film with a minor in Broadcast Journalism, and is currently working in multiple positions including tutoring for foster youth, as well as an assistant organizer, and also an office manager at a financial company.  Sarah says she is happy with any job where she is able to be creative and can also help people.  

Since graduating with her Bachelor’s Degree, she’s working on projects related to her degree in Radio-TV-Film including a short film you can find at: http://vimeo.com/88954751.  

Sarah has fond memories of the Career Institute, and when asked what her favorite part of the Career Institute was, Sarah replied:
“One of the best things that I got out of the Career Institute was a chance to intern with my city newspaper. I would have never of even thought I'd be able to do an internship while still at a CC. I gained a lot of knowledge in my field of writing and story telling, I got to report on many interesting stories, and I'm a published writer and photographer from the experience. I also got to be a part of the Guinness World Records Book when I was a part of the world's largest dessert party.”

-Tim

Curious Paths Ahead.

This is James Buchanan, a recent graduate of Alta Loma High School and now former student of the Career Institute's Hospitality Program. James is currently completing his work experience as a front desk agent for the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel,where he assist guests with a seamless check-in process and provides excellent customer service skills from the weekly classes he attends through the program.Although he plans to study for the medical field in preparation for an OB/GYN in the near future, James stated that after working in the hospitality industry for almost two months it has made him curious to see what it has to offer.In addition, James is currently saving up to fund for Citrus College and be financially stable for his career path.He believes that while completing the hospitality program it has shaped him into an independent, outgoing, and responsible adult.James is confident in whatever path lies ahead of him as he thanks the Career Institute for giving him a glimpse of the working world.

Now Enrolling for Fall Classes!

Are you from the age 18-21 and unsure what Career path is right for you? 

Or perhaps you know what Career path you want to accomplish, but unsure how to take the first step? 

LET US HELP!

We offer many career and job placement programs. Find the program that will best help you to jump start your future!

"Career Institute is a career, education, and life planning organization for young adults. Our mission is to mentor students as they chart a course for their lives. Students will develops life skills, certify in an industry specific field, abtain emplayment, map out a plan for continuing education and develop leadership qualities that will lead them to a bright future."

Find your Career Path through our Rancho Cucamonga's Hospitality Management class!

Career paths in this industry include: Hotel Management, Concierge, Restaurant Management, Waitress/Waiter, Property Management, Chef/Culinary Arts, Cook/Sous Chef, Travel Agent, Banquet and Event Planner, Wedding Planner, Reservation Agent, Amusement and Recreation Management and many more!

To learn more, please visit our website at www.cinow.org

Or email our Career Mentor at

Lpilarcik@cinow.org.

1 Office Down. 3 More To Go!

Student Ambassador, Georgia Burckel, adventured off her path once again to capture the Career Institute office in Lake Arrowhead! As we (Career Institute Staff) are making wonderful changes and updates to soon launch our new website, Georgia has a couple photo projects to give the website a special touch. This shoot in specific was our High School Completion and GED program in Lake Arrowhead. Next up; Big Bear, Victorville, then Barstow!

-Georgia Burckel

gburckel@cinow.org

Second Comeback in Victorville!

Rodrelle with CNA certificate in January 2014

Rodrelle receiving Leadership Connection certificates in May 2014

Rodrelle DeAndrade is returning with a second success story this year! He is going beyond our expectations and Career Institute is very proud of his accomplishments, so we decided to update his latest events so far this year.

Rodrelle has been a shining star in the Career Institute office in Victorville. He graduated from the Certified Nursing Assistant Program in October of 2013 and received multiple training courses within a couple of months. Before entering into the program, Rodrelle felt that his window of opportunity was getting smaller until he landed a part time job at Knolls West Acute Care facility and participated in the 2014 Apple Valley Leadership Connection Program. With the connections and networking Rodrelle created in the Leadership program, he was able to explore a new career in real estate as an intern for Shear Realty. Currently, Rodrelle is preparing to take his real estate license and complete some courses at the local community college. He has now realized that there are endless possibilities for him and he decided to pursue the military after he receives proper experience and education.

Success Story: Iolani Elisara!

Iolani "Ani" Elisara

For this month’s success story I decided to write about Iolani Elisara or, “Ani” as she likes to be called. Ani is an active participate of the WIA youth group and Leadership for the Barstow office. Ani is one of seven children and is the first to pursue a degree straight out of High School. Both of Ani’s parents only received a High School diploma, and decided she wanted something different. She began attending and working at Barstow Community College in 2013. Her professional goal is to go into the medical field and become a Family Nurse Practitioner and to later join the Air Force. She is well on her way to reaching her goal, during her first semester at Barstow Community College, Ani has made it on the Barstow Community College President’s List by earning 12 or more graded units and achieving a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.75 or Higher. Last month Ani was one of almost 100 students that received a scholarship from Barstow Community College. Ani’s story is truly one of success that is still being written.

Ready... Set.. COLLEGE!

This past Wednesday, August 20th, our Hospitality and Management class had a special guest speaker. Stephanie Harkey is a College Funding Advisor that helps students plan to pay for college! She taught us different college costs, financial aid equation, different types of financial aid (grants, scholarships, work-study, loans), and application processes (FASFA, GPA Verification Form, CSS/Financial Aid profile). Did you know that the unemployment rate for a Bachelors degree is only 4.5% compared to just a High School diploma unemployment rate of 8.3%? Or a weekly income for a Doctoral degree is minimum $1,524? Stephanie provided us fun facts that proved how important getting an education is. Paying for an education is an issue for most students, but Stephanie was able to provide us outstanding information that can help our students when it comes to paying tuition. 

Thank you Stephanie!

"The only thing more expensive than going to college is not going to college"- Stephanie Harkey

Flashback Friday!

FLASHBACK FRIDAY!!

Hello Everyone,

I wanted to share this picture of Tim & I during our first day of training as Student Ambassadors! Looking back at this picture makes me so happy. At first I honestly didn't know what I was getting myself into but as the time went on everything became a lot clearer. Becoming a Student Ambassador for the Career Institute has been one of the greatest decisions I've made! Everything I've learned throughout this whole process will be something I will aways carry along with me so that I can help others change their lives for the better like the Career Institute has done for us all!

Throwback Thursday: 2/22/13

In honor of Throwback Thursday, we're going back to February 22,2013 when motivational speaker, Mr. Al Duncan, came and spoke with our Barstow youth group.

Mr. Duncan not only gave us inspirational words and advice (called Duncan Nuggets), but also created an activity showing us the art of the handshake.

While attending this motivational speaking event (at the time a 1st year WIA student and freshman in college), I learned how to give a good handshake, and also remember his tips for college students.

1: Utilize the resources around you.
2: Get connected.
3: Invest your time.

The Career Institute has helped me with all three. They showed our youth group what's available on-campus, offered different opportunities to get involved not only with them but also on and off campus, and did an entire session on time management and the importance of using our time wisely.

If you live in Barstow and are interested in how the Career Institute can help you, come by our office or check us out online (www.cinow.org).

- Tim 

New Employment.

 Student Ambassador, Georgia Burckel, added five new trendy shirts to her wardrobe! Georgia was hired onto the Career Institute staff to work in the head Rancho Cucamonga office where she will help with administrative work and marketing. She is honored and thrilled to 'Work in an environment where she can learn and grow' and to 'get a job that pertains to her future career with helping young adults'. New and exciting changes are happening with the Career Institute! Changes that will better the life's of the young adults in our community, and that will grow a successful futures for the new faces in our program. 

-Georgia Burckel

gburckel@cinow.org

Shoot Saturday!

Student Ambassador Georgia Burckel brings her skills to capture more pictures of Career Institute's summer class at work. From students polishing silverware to answering phones; and even landscapes of the beautiful Sheraton Hotel.  More pictures in the works of a wonderful marketing video!

-Georgia Burckel
gburckel@cinow.org

Success Story!

 

New student Bianca Matos is now enrolled in our Hospitality and Management class! Her recent, biggest accomplishment had been completing and graduating high school. She feels she is successful today because she is currently being active with her work experience she will need for more future success. She is currently working hard in our career institute classes and work experience at the Sheraton hotel because she feels it will play a significant role in her future. The Career Institute is helping her break out pf her shell, taking her out of her comfort zone, and teaching her skills on how to be professional in the work force. Her future goals require her to interact with people. With the training and experience the Career Institute is offering her, she feels she will have the ability to be successful.