Months of planning paid off in a huge way when, on March 19, 2010, 50 students from Coral Gables High, Edison High and South Ridge High were transported to Florida International University’s (FIU) Modesto A. Maidique Campus for a career day of guidance organized by FLIP (FIU Leaders in Practice).
Since its inception in October 2009, the students and alumni of the College of Business Administration who make up FLIP have been meeting on weekends, holding fundraisers and visiting high schools in an effort to create a service project for underprivileged high school students and to develop their own leadership skills.
During the event, the high school students listened and interacted with speakers who provided advice on life skills and the college experience. They also received a campus tour and a motivating keynote speech by Frank Kelly (BBA ’01).
Organizers describe ups and downs of effort.
“The entire experience was like a roller coaster”, said Robert Sepulveda (BBA ’05) regarding planning and implementing the event. “No matter how much we planned, there were always unexpected twist and turns.”
“The most challenging aspect for me was scheduling”, said Johanna Salazar, a Professional MBA (PMBA) student. “We all have limited time, but it was rewarding to watch everyone come together and make things happen.”
Project receives resounding praise.
FLIP members were rewarded by the enthusiasm of the high school students during the event.
“It turned out to be better than I could have ever envisioned,” said Michelle Joubert, assistant director of advancement and alumni relations in the business school, whose initial idea paved the way for FLIP’s creation. “The students were attentive, excited and left motivated and inspired. A contact from another university asked how they could set up a similar program, indicating that we achieved our goal to inspire other institutions.”
RELATED ARTICLES AND ADDITIONAL MEDIA COVERAGE
- March 23, 2010: “FLIP hosts Career Day for high school students,” News@FIU
- February 4, 2010: “FIU Leaders in Practice offer career day for underprivileged high school students,” Biznews.fiu.edu
- October 30, 2009: “FIU business students and alums FLIP for social change,” Biznews.fiu.edu
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