Enterprise for Youth is a central employment resource, where youth learn job-readiness skills and soft skills — and practice those skills in supportive, paid internships. If you are joining or thinking about joining an Enterprise program this year, here is some advice to keep in mind!
1. Have an open mind and try something new
If something seems interesting to you or catches your attention, try it out! Enterprise for Youth offers many internships that range from the culinary industry to technology. Don’t be afraid to try out something new, even if you think you don’t have the right experience or skills for it. There are many skills such as communication, leadership, and collaboration that can apply to nearly every professional field. There are so many opportunities for you to explore, and each is bound to provide a new challenge that will help you grow. No matter the outcome, it’s always good to try. The worst thing that could happen is that it doesn’t work out, and you just try something else you’re interested in. There’s no harm in trying.
2. Don’t be scared to change your mind!
If an internship was not what you expected, or if you want to change your career focus, Enterprise is a great place to explore that change! Many of the internships offered at Enterprise are welcoming and friendly to any youth who is interested in learning more about all the different professions out there. So if something didn’t work out, don’t worry; figuring out what you don’t like is just as valuable as figuring out what you do like. There’s so much to explore and learn, so don’t be afraid to change your career focus.
3. Try not to compare, everyone’s journey is different
Life moves at a different pace for everyone, so try not to compare someone else’s journey to your own. It’s common to not be certain what you want to do, so if someone else knows exactly what they want to pursue, it’s okay if you don’t yet. Try to focus on what makes you feel inspired, happy, and eager to learn more. Enterprise for Youth will guide you through all the first steps to enter the working world – from job readiness training programs to paid internships, extended opportunities, and so much more. Whether you are starting with experience or are freshly new to the working world, the Enterprise team will support you through it all.
4. Get ready to meet a lot of amazing people
The Enterprise for Youth team is always willing to lend a helping hand and offer advice when needed! Each team member has their own unique background and experience, so there is always something new to learn about life or the working world. Additionally, you’ll be with an amazing group of Bay Area youth who are consistently encouraging and supporting each other to pursue their passions and dreams. There are so many opportunities to make new friends, meet new people, and network! Through the many paid internships as well as workshops, career panels, and field trips, youth are given the opportunity to speak with professionals who are passionate about their work. Networking is an important skill that can help you progress in your academic or professional career. You never know who you may meet and what you can learn from each other!
5. Be curious and ask questions!
Lastly, ask questions! There is no harm in being curious about a subject or topic you may not be familiar with. The best way to learn and overcome any barriers to our career goals is by asking questions. The internships, workshops, and career exploration panels all encourage curiosity, so don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions!
All in all, these are just a few pieces of advice to keep in mind when joining Enterprise, and they can be applied to your own academic or personal goals in life. Finding what you are passionate about can be a difficult journey to uncover. It’s important to remember that the challenges and opportunities that may lay ahead can be really valuable in your journey. If you are interested in how Enterprise can help take you one step closer to your passion, or help you find your passion, click here to learn more about the youth programs within Enterprise.
By Tiffany Liang, Communications Intern, Enterprise for Youth
By Tiffany Liang, Communications Intern, Enterprise for Youth