Another important point she made is about the skills students are lacking when they enter the workforce. Students are not learning the fundamentals such as knowing how to communicate effectively, how to dress appropriately for a job, how to look a person in the eye and shake their hand, how to write a resume and conduct themselves in an interview. She stated that business employers are constantly saying that they need employees who have common sense, follow directions, give directions, are an all around person, who can spell, understand technology, understand commitment and listen. We need to have students involved in internships that teach these skills.
These are things I'd like to focus on in all my classes. I'm thinking of once a week doing at least a 15 minute activity dedicated to life and career skills, so students have guidance on how to find a job, keep it, and be successful.
Overall, this was a great day. I enjoyed hearing her viewpoints and I'd like to follow up with a meeting with Adam Cox, the CEO.