Meet our Specialist of the Month winner for December, Cheryl Miller, a Jobs for Michigan’s Graduates (JMG) Specialist, Casman Academy (Out-of-School) and Mackinaw Trail Middle School (In-School). Cheryl has been a JMG Specialist for a little over 3 years and made a huge impact in the lives of the youth she serves. Cheryl serves on the Youth Solutions Alumni Network planning committee and has played an integral part in forming and developing the Alumni Network. We asked several questions so you can get to know her better:
Why did you become a JMG Specialist?
I read the job description and said, "YES! This is an important position that I can get excited about!"
What inspires you about your job?
The youth! To see them willing to take risks, get out of their comfort zones and chase those dreams, never gets old.
Recall a favorite memory about being a specialist. (an event, a youth accomplishment, etc.)
Working with a youth on her Career Preparation presentation for the Career Development Conference (CDC), and then seeing her receive 3rd place!
What is one of the greatest challenges you face in your job?
To keep from getting frustrated when I see the potential in the youth before they see it for themselves, but then it is so rewarding to continue to walk with them and see the spark and then the flame as the belief in themselves grows.
What is one of the greatest highlights/joys of your job?
Teenage eyerolls... Well, actually the relationships developed with these youth that result in the good humored eye rolling that I get!
Why do you think JMG is so important for youth?
It gives them hope and empowers them to make a connection between where they are, where they want to go, and the skills and support on how to get there.
Share your hobbies, do you have any pets, what do you like to do in your spare time, etc. A couple random facts to get to know you better.
I live in a little cabin on a small lake up north with my husband of 34 years, one cat (mine) and one dog (his)!
Fun fact: I have lived in 7 states and 3 countries.
Nominations are open to ALL, including our employer partners! If you know a phenomenal specialist, we encourage you to nominate them as our December Specialist of the month.
Nominate a specialist who deserves to be recognized, here.
Comments