August 2022 CCC Conference

Friday, August 12 at 10am – 3pm

Welcome to the August  2022 College and Career Connections Conference! This event is a chance to hear from numerous experts and professionals as you progress on your plan to SUCCESS.

Access the Sessions Below

Welcome, Keynote, & Prize Break #1 | 10:30 - 11:40am

Darryl Bellamy Jr. Headshot_Keynote

Keynote:

Fearful to FEARLESS Moments

The Fearful to FEARLESS Moments Experience invites you to identify what’s holding you back while learning the true purpose of fear in your life. What fears stop you from taking more risks in every area of your life? You’ll leave with practical ways to act through fear while learning the top worries of your peers. Prepare for an engaging experience inviting you to a future not without fear but one where you act to have more fearless moments.

Darryl Bellemy Jr.

Darryl is an International Speaker, Author, Husband, and Father who uses his experience as an entrepreneur and past student leader to help students have more fearless moments. He’s collected more written student fears than anyone in the world. He’s a TEDx speaker, featured on multiple news programs, and is the owner of Fearless Inside, which has inspired thousands of students to act beyond their worries, fears, and anxiety.

Welcome, Keynote, & Prize Break #1

Session #1 | 11:40am - 12:25pm

Budgeting Tips

Nujhat Mayesha and Jackie Bisson

Interested in learning some tips about how to manage your money once you start receiving a paycheck for your internship? Come hear about some strategies and tools you can use to create and maintain your budget.

HBCU Alumni Panel

Christen Glass, David Edgerton Jr. , Frantz D. Soiro, Joytrese George, and Robin Francis

Are you interested in attending a Historically Black College and University (HBCU)? Come to this session to hear about the experiences of the panelists who attended HBCUs.

Applying to the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Anna Loken

Are you interested in attending the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities? Attend this session to learn more about the U of M and the application process.

Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 1)

Ashley Castellanos, Brandon Vue, Hodan Ahmed, Sabriin Mohamed, and Victor Vang

Hear from Genesys Works alumni who have been through the high school internship experience about tips for thriving in the internship experience.

Four-Year and Two-Year College Experiences

Bryan Casas, Genuine Song, Kat Cheney, Linda Moua, and Lorpu Sumo

Considering attending college to earn a two-year or four-year degree next fall? Come hear from our panel of Genesys Works alumni about their experiences attending college and advice they have for choosing a college, applying, attending, and transferring.

Hodan Ahmed
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 1)

Hello, my name is Hodan Ahmed, and I’m a rising junior at Augsburg University majoring in Computer Science and minoring in MIS. I’m currently a Technology Summer Analyst at Accenture where I work in Application Maintenance Support for a fortunate 500 retail consumer company. I previously interned at other companies including Target and Best Buy. My role at Target consisted of help desk support with password issues. My role at Best Buy consisted of frontend development work as an Engineer Intern with the ADAPT Web team. I know what it’s like to navigate your first internship which is pretty intimidating. I’m here to help answer any concerns you may have and bring you some clarity on what it’s like navigating the professional world as a young professional. Once you’ve gotten through your first internship, that only opens more doors for you to keep you on the right track in your career path.  

Jackie Bisson
Budgeting Tips

Jackie Bisson is the Manager of College Success at Genesys Works and provides support to alumni on their post-high school journey, whether that includes college, straight to career, or something else! 

Bryan Casas
Four-Year and Two-Year College Experiences

Bryan Casas is currently pursuing a BSB in Marketing at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management. As he continues on his path as a college-student-turned-entrepreneur and freelancer, Bryan makes holistic marketing strategies with support regarding digital marketing, web design, photography, videography, and more. A trusted resource for the companies he supports, he also brings organizational abilities, time management skills, and a collaborative spirit to each new endeavor. 

Ashley Castellanos
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 1)

Ashley Castellanos (She/her) is an incoming freshmen at the University of St. Thomas and is working towards her Bachelors in Computer Science or Business (international business or Accounting). Ashley spends her free time with family and friends by playing games or watching movies.  

Kat Cheney
Four-Year and Two-Year College Experiences

Kat will soon begin her first year at Augsburg University as a sophomore after taking two years of PSEO at Minneapolis College. She will be double majoring in Film Production and Graphic Design. To further develop her design and professional skills, she will be extending her internship at Land O’Lakes on the Telecom and Artist team. As she continues her studies in film and design, she will hone in on the skills learned from those classes in her current graphic design project for Agile training across the company.  

David Edgerton Jr.
HBCU Alumni Panel

David Edgerton Jr. is the managing principal for The DEJ Group, an executive search and recruiting firm that focuses on finding and connecting exceptional diverse talent with inclusive companies. The firm also provides executive coaching and custom training services for minority entrepreneurs and business professionals. 

David has over twenty-four years of corporate experience and also has served as an adjunct professor for over eleven years – teaching information technology, project management and business analytics.  With his passion in minority business development, David serves an entrepreneur-in-residence at the University of Minnesota to assist and coach startups as a part of the Discovery Launchpad MN program and also facilitates content for the Ascend Twin Cities program in partnership with JPMorgan Chase, the Metropolitan Economic Development Association, and the Carlson School of Management.  He also serves a mentor in the community entrepreneurship program at the University of Saint Thomas. 

David has a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from North Carolina A&T State University and an MBA from the Carlson School of Management. During his corporate career he has worked for several companies in the Twin Cities including Andersen Windows and Doors, Be The Match, Best Buy, Imation Corporation, Smead Manufacturing, and Ambient Consulting. 

David currently volunteers as a member of the board of directors for the Bethel University Foundation.  He is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and serves as a church musician and worship leader at his church.  David is married to Michelle and has three children. 

 

Robin Francis
HBCU Alumni Panel

Robin Francis is a proud product of the St. Paul Public Schools.  After receiving a Bachelor of Arts at Virginia State University, and continuing on to the University of St. Thomas with the Collaborative Urban Educator Program (CUE) finishing a Master of Arts degree and receiving her Ed Specialist degree and K-12 principal licensure, Robin continues to be a lifelong learner. Most recently Robin received her Director of Special Education license and she continues work on her doctorate degree in special education leadership.  Robin has worked as a classroom teacher, a building principal and a district level leader, as well as spending time as an independent consultant with charter sites helping with the development of systems, creating processes for staff and students and educational practices that ensure equity is at the forefront of all conversations and     actions.  Some of her more recent work is within Eastern Carver County Schools as the Director of Equity and Inclusion, and as of July Robin has become an independent consultant with Forbes Solution under the Finding Human Institute a new leg of the company.  

Robin’s work spans from elementary through secondary as an academic leader,  working with a voluntary Office of Civil Rights agreement, implementing a district discipline policy, developing policies, procedures, creating structures and systems to ensure equity is at the forefront of conversations, development of a new department, a classroom teacher, and an administrator for over 20 years.  Working in both large and small districts, as well as charter sites both with struggles of newness and developing systems and structures for sustainability. This variety of work experience has left Robin with the insight into the importance of all educational systems ensuring they are meeting the needs of all of their students.  

The journey in education for Robin continues to bring her back to a personal and professional passion which is the importance of equity and equitable practice.  The work of equity is vital to helping students build a strong foundation for their academic and  social journey, and our educational system holding space for this work is non negotiable. All staff need the tools to help students achieve academic success; proper customized training, professional development sessions, staff book talks, and creating  purposeful professional learning communities are some of the necessary supports for staff and should take priority to ensure all staff are ready to meet the needs of the students that come into their classroom each day. 

Joytrese George
HBCU Alumni Panel

Joytrese George is originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota. A tenured science educator working in NYC. Prior to teaching, Joytrese worked at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in clinical research, and with non-profit youth programs in the Washington, DC area. 

Joytrese was awarded a Master Teaching Fellowship with the prestigious Math For America; where she collaborates with other STEM educators to promote professional growth and continued learning. She has also facilitated domestic and international research trips with Earthwatch (organization committed to the reversal of climate change), taking students outside of the typical classroom and into a world of exploration in sustainability and conservation. Additionally, she was a STEM-Ed Innovator fellow, working to foster empathy and antiracism in the classroom atmosphere. 

Joytrese holds a Bachelors in Biology from Howard University, and a Masters in Education from St. John’s University. Joytrese is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Educational Policy and Leadership at American University. Joytrese loves culinary arts, home decor, and discovery through travel. 

Christen Glass
HBCU Alumni Panel

Christen Glass is the youngest of five children, the first in his immediate family afforded the opportunity to attend and graduated from college. Christen attended Macalester College prior to completing his Bachelors of Science in Healthcare Administration at the beloved Jackson State University in 2012. Currently, Christen is the Commercial Team Manager at UCare, where he has worked for the past 7 years. 

Anna Loken
Applying to the U of M

Anna Loken (She/Her/Hers) is currently an Admissions Counselor for the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. She is a first-generation college-graduate from the Northside of Minneapolis. Anna is passionate about providing students with the information they need to make informed decisions, especially about which college to attend and what to look for during the college search.   

Nujhat Mayesha
Budgeting Tips

Nujhat Mayesha (She/Her/Hers) is an upcoming sophomore at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. She is majoring in Economics with a minor in Business Management. She is from Dubai, United Arab Emirates and moved to America in 2018 and has lived in Minnesota since. She has a passion for reading and trying out new restaurants (Indian food is her favorite)! 

Sabriin Mohamed
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 1)

Sabriin Mohamed (She/Her/Hers) is currently a College intern at Medtronic’s Consult department, studying to earn dual degrees in Political Science and Economics. She’s a first-generation college student, passionate about strategies for achieving career goals and dreams. In her free time, Sabriin spends her time traveling, spending time with friends and family, and a good Netflix binge. 

Linda Moua
Four-Year and Two-Year College Experiences

Linda Moua (She/Her/Hers) is current junior attending Metropolitan State University majoring in Management Information Systems (MIS). Recently accepted a job offer from Target Corporate to be a full-time engineer on the Hi-Tech team. I’m still in the process of self-discovery both personally and professionally. I enjoy the outdoors and playing games during my free time with my friends and family. I want to strongly advocate for younger women in technology to fulfill their passions with confidence.  

Frantz D. Soiro
HBCU Alumni Panel

Frantz D. Soiro is an early career professional committed to translating research into the community. He is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Pharmacy in the Pharmaceutical Health Services, Outcome and Policy program and a medical affairs intern at Myovant Sciences. He graduated from Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota with a BA in Chemistry concentrated in Chemical Biology (2016) and a Master’s in Public Health from Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia (2021). His current work and background are concentrated in Pharmacoepidemiology.  Frantz’s efforts address health inequities and healthcare disparity research among underserved populations diagnosed with chronic conditions (i.e., cardiovascular diseases and prostate cancer). He is originally from Orange, New Jersey and currently resides in the Greater Atlanta Area of Georgia . Beyond his studies, Frantz is a proud father of two girls, Maya (4) and Nia (1). He is a dedicated member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and a well-versed dancer. Through his service and devotion to health equity, he has discovered that his personal and professional experiences allow him to contribute a unique but valuable work ethic towards the communities he serves. With a strong interest in global aid, he devoted thus 5+ years to under-resourced and disproportioned populations in Tanzania, East Africa serving now as the Chief Health Officer and Executive Manager for a non-profit healthcare start-up called Project Run For. Frantz loves mentoring and lives by the mantra, “Let the work you have done, speak for you.” 

Genuine Song
Four-Year and Two-Year College Experiences

My name is Genuine, and I am currently attending the University of Minnesota. I am a rising Junior studying Information Technology Infrastructure (ITI) and minoring in Computer Science. Outside of school I am currently employed and interning at Xcel Energy Inc. 

Lorpu Sumo
Four-Year and Two-Year College Experiences

My name a Lorpu Nueka Sumo. I’m a junior at Augsburg University majoring in Communication Studies with a minor is Spanish. I have been both in the ELP (Emerging Leaders Program) and an AYTI (Augsburg Youth Theology) mentor during my Sophomore year at Augsburg. I’m currently a Christensen Scholar.  I’m also a third year Page Scholar. I volunteer at an after school program at Lake View Elementary School as part of my requirement for my Page Grant. I read to the kids and play some educational games with them. Monopoly is my favorite game to play with them. I have also participated in the Accenture Innovation Challenge and Hack the Gap. I did my Summer Training with Genesys Works in the summer of 2019 and got drafted at TCF Bank. I worked with IT Desktop Support and IT End User Computing during my senior year of high school. I was also a Genesys Works Student Ambassador. I’m currently a Genesys Works Business Analyst Intern at Medica 

Victor Vang
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 1)

My name is Victor Vang, and I am a Genesys Works alumni, class of 2020. Currently, I am working at AM Retail as a Help Desk Technician under TEKsystems. My time with AM Retail and TEKsystems has taught me to step more out of my comfort zone– and that was mentally terrifying, but also very much needed in an environment that I am in. In my free-time, I like to play PC games, watch shows/movies, and going out on a drive. Over the past few years, I’ve also learned how to play the electric guitar! Currently, I am learning how to play rock/metal music since I am a big fan of that genre.  

Brandon Vue
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 1)

Brandon Vue is currently a Junior at North Hennepin Community College, majoring in Computer Science, and looking forward to transfering to complete his Bachelor’s degree. Brandon joined Genesys Works for the class of 2019 and is now an alum of TDP ‘20. Currently, Brandon is still at Target Corporate and is looking to join as a Developer. He hopes to also highlight his and many others pathways into Software Engineering in order to show case that there are multiple pathways available for bright young professionals.  

Prize Break #2 | 12:25 - 12:30pm

Prize Break #2

Session #2 | 1:00 - 1:45pm

Medical Careers Panel

Pam Lee, Dema Mohammed, Sofia Shrestha, Frantz D. Soiro, Leah Thompson, and Seth Molitor

This session will be a panel discussion from a variety of folks who are currently working in the medical field and/or are going to school to pursue a career in the field. Come join us in a discussion to talk about important "need to knows" as you consider pursuing a career in the medical field, hear personal experiences from professionals, and answer any questions you have.

Started at GW, Now We're Here in a Tech Career

Danasia Kelly, Davon Goodwin, Pa Na Veng, and Txuci Lee

How do you go from a high school internship in tech to a full-time career? These panelists know because that's what they did! Learn from their experience and find out if this path could work for you.

Radical Self-Care for Young Professionals

Shundrice Tucker

There are 10 billion #selfcare videos on TikTok and 64 million #selfcare posts on Instagram right now. Self care is ubiquitous and performative. But your chances for success increase when you practice radical self care which is a deeper, inner journey. In this session, we will explore and develop radical self care practices together.

Writing the College Essay

Aisha Gonzalez

During this interactive workshop, we'll review the do's and don'ts of writing a college essay. Discover the ways to represent yourself in an authentic and genuine way to stand out among other applicants. Plus, we'll cover the basic proofreading steps that will avoid common missteps.

Navigating College as a First-Generation College Student

Christian Beleke, Faiza Mah, Sumayyah Saed-Osman, Xia Thao, and Yahye Hussien

Will you be the first generation in your family to attend college? Are you interested in hearing from other students who were the first in their families to go to college? Come to this session to hear some advice about navigating the college experience from applications to attendance.
Christian Bekele Headshot_First Gen

Christian Beleke
Navigating College as a First-Generation College Student

My name is Christian Bekele (He/Him/His). This fall I will be attending University of St. Thomas majoring in Electrical Engineering. Right now, I am working as a program manager intern at Best Buy. When I get some free time, I like to go out and play soccer with my friends.  

A Gonzalez - Headshot_CollegeEssay

Aisha Gonzalez
Writing the College Essay

Aisha Gonzalez (she/her) is the Senior Associate Director of Admissions for Diversity & Inclusion at Macalester College in St. Paul. She’s been a member of the Macalester Admissions team for 3 years. Prior, she worked in admissions for her alma mater, Mills College, in Oakland, CA where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political, Legal, and Economic Analysis. In addition to her work at Macalester, Aisha serves as President for the Minnesota Association of Counselors of Color Executive Board. Aisha is very dedicated to access and success within higher education and the work of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging 

 

Davon Goodwin Headshot_Started from GW

Davon Goodwin
Started at GW, Now We’re Here in a Tech Career

Hello, my name is Davon Goodwin, and I’m a software engineer with Target’s Target Outreach Manager team. I grew up in Saint Paul where I attended Highland Park Senior High. I was a GW Class 4 student which prepared me for my college career at Minnesota State University – Mankato. There I received my BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Business Management, Communication Studies, and Recreation, Park, and Leisure Services. In my spare time I enjoy working out, traveling, going to concerts, and trying new restaurants.   

Yahye Hussien Headshot_First Gen Panel

Yahye Hussien
Navigating College as a First-Generation College Student

Yahye Hussien is a student at the University of Minnesota – Carlson School of Management studying Management Information Systems with a minor in Business Analytics and Leadership. In his free time, he likes to play basketball, travel, and eat foods from all different cultures! 

Danasia Kelly Headshot_Started from GW Panel

Danasia Kelly
Started at GW, Now We’re Here in a Tech Career

Hi, I’m Danasia Kelly! I’m 20 years old and I work in cybersecurity at Target. I love watching movies and walking my dog in my free time. 

PamLee_MedPanel_Headshot

Pam Lee
Medical Careers Panel

Graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing degree from Saint Catherine University. Has a background working in mental health and pediatrics. Currently working in the mother-baby unit at Regions Hospital in Saint Paul, MN. Holds a certificate as a Public Health Nurse, enjoys participating in community health events. Outside of work, I enjoy reading a good book outside in the nice weather.  

Txuci Lee Headshot_Started from GW

Txuci Lee
Started at GW, Now We’re Here in a Tech Career

I’m Txuci Lee – I am on the Hi Tech team at Target. We support Target’s IT, very similar to the Apple Genius Bar. I am the GW manager/lead on the team, and I work with YPs, GWA, and Career Readys. I have been on Hi Tech going on 3 almost 4 years. In my free time I like playing sports and traveling. 

Faiza Mah Headshot_First Gen Panel

Faiza Mah
Navigating College as a First-Generation College Student

My name is Faiza Mah, and I’m a current Senior at the University of Minnesota majoring in Information Technology Infrastructure with an emphasis on Cybersecurity. I also work as Security Operations Analyst at CHS Inc.  

Dema Mohamed_MedicalPanel_Headshot

Dema Mohammed
Medical Careers Panel

Dema, pronounced Dee-ma, completed her undergraduate and Doctor of Pharmacy studies at the University of Minnesota and then a Post-Graduate Pharmacy Residency Program at the Community University Health Care Center (CUHCC) located in South Minneapolis. She has worked in multiple pharmacy settings including in retail pharmacies, hospitals and clinics. She currently works as a Clinical Pharmacist at MOBE, a company focused on guiding people to better health and more happiness by providing customized guidance around everything that affects ones health. As a clinical pharmacist, she focuses on working one-to-one with people to review their medicines and help them solve any medication-related problems along with health care providers. She really enjoys educating people about their medicines and health conditions. Outside of work, she enjoys being active through fitness classes, playing soccer, and spending time with her family including her 2.5 year old dog, a mini Sheepadoodle named Rome. 

SethMolitor_MedPanels_headshot

Seth Molitor
Medical Careers Panel

Seth Molitor started nursing on the advice of the people around him, and he believes it’s been one of the best decisions he’s made. Seth didn’t have much of a plan or path in college prior to choosing nursing, however, once he decided on nursing, he states it has continually opened new doors and opportunities for growth, given him the chance to make a difference in people’s lives, and has also afforded him a lifestyle he feels blessed to have.” Seth believes that there is a “lot of good” in healthcare and wants to share what he learned in his time in the healthcare profession.  

Sumayyah Saed Headshot_First Gen

Sumayyah Saed-Osman
Navigating College as a First-Generation College Student

I’m Sumayyah Saed-Osman. I am a current junior at Augsburg University majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Marketing. I hope to become a UX designer/front-end web developer to be able to show my creativity through tech! I would like to share all my experiences from being a first-gen college student and navigating college by myself and help people find all the resources I used to get where I am today. Some of my hobbies are reading and traveling 

Sofia Shrestha_Headshot_MedPanel

Sofia Shrestha
Medical Careers Panel

I am currently a clinical pharmacist at Fairview Home Infusion where I work with patients from all over the United States to provide infusion services at their home. My clinical passions are in oncology and specialty disease states.  I received my PharmD from the University of Minnesota in 2019 and Bachelors in Biology from Carleton College in Northfield, MN in 2015. While at Richfield High School, I also had the amazing opportunity to be a part of Genesys Works Twin Cities Class 3!  

FrantzSoiroHeadshot_MedicalPanel

Frantz D. Soiro
Medical Careers Panel

Frantz D. Soiro is an early career professional committed to translating research into the community. He is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Georgia (UGA) College of Pharmacy in the Pharmaceutical Health Services, Outcome and Policy program and a medical affairs intern at Myovant Sciences. He graduated from Saint John’s University in Collegeville, Minnesota with a BA in Chemistry concentrated in Chemical Biology (2016) and a Master’s in Public Health from Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Georgia (2021). His current work and background are concentrated in Pharmacoepidemiology. 

Frantz’s efforts address health inequities and healthcare disparity research among underserved populations diagnosed with chronic conditions (i.e., cardiovascular diseases and prostate cancer). He is originally from Orange, New Jersey and currently resides in the Greater Atlanta Area of Georgia.

Beyond his studies, Frantz is a proud father of two girls, Maya (4) and Nia (1). He is a dedicated member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and a well-versed dancer. Through his service and devotion to health equity, he has discovered that his personal and professional experiences allow him to contribute a unique but valuable work ethic towards the communities he serves. With a strong interest in global aid, he devoted thus 5+ years to under-resourced and disproportioned populations in Tanzania, East Africa serving now as the Chief Health Officer and Executive Manager for a non-profit healthcare start-up called Project Run For. Frantz loves mentoring and lives by the mantra, “Let the work you have done, speak for you.” 

Xia Thao_First Gen Panel

Xia Thao
Navigating College as a First-Generation College Student

Xia Thao is an incoming freshman at the University of Minnesota, majoring in Computer Science. She is currently interning at Target. In her free time she likes to read and play board games with families and friends. 

Leah Thompson Headshot_MedicalPanel

Leah Thompson
Medical Careers Panel

Leah Thompson (She/her/hers) is originally from White Bear Lake, Minnesota, and is currently working at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN as a PCA (Patient Care Assistant). In addition, she will be graduating from Luther College with her Bachelor’s in Nursing this December and plans to work as an RN in the critical care setting. In her free time, Leah enjoys hiking, camping, reading, art journaling, and thrift shopping. 

Shundrice Tucker Headshot_StressmanagmentSelfcare

Shundrice Tucker
Radical Self Care for Young Professionals

Shundrice Tucker (she/her) is guided by the quote “if you don’t stand for children, you don’t stand for much.” Born and raised in Memphis, she earned a B.S. from Tennessee State University and an M.F.A. from DePaul University. Her background and impact is rooted in youth development, dramatic arts, and public school advocacy. She has worked with the Beacons Network, Fred Wells Tennis & Education Center, Advancing Equity Coalition and SteppingStone Theatre for Youth. Shundrice is also a Twin Cities New Leaders Council alumni. She enjoys theatre, jazz, kayaking, and cultural experiences. Shundrice is currently an education organizer and resides in Brooklyn. 

Pa Na Vang_Started from GW

Pa Na Vang
Started at GW, Now We’re Here in a Tech Career

My first introduction to Information Technology was during an internship my junior year of high school with Genesys Works. After my senior year, I attended St. Cloud State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and concentration in Operations Management. I am an Engineer on the Enterprise Design and Graphic Environment (EDGE) team supporting Target Headquarters. EDGE delivers technology tools to spark creativity and delight team members. My role is to provide technical support to our specialty equipment (e.g., 3D body scanners, 3D printers) and our creative teams (e.g., Product Development and Design team). I am the only woman on my team, and I want to empower more women to be interested in technology. It only takes one person, program or group to spark that interest. I hope I am the person who can influence even one of you to work in technology! 

Prize Break #3 | 1:45 - 2:00pm

Prize Break #3

Session #3 | 2:00 - 2:45pm

Finding Your Best Fit Colleges & Scholarships with College Greenlight

Juli Scalf

Senior year is just around the corner. But where should you apply to college? And how will you pay for it? During this session, you'll hear how College Greenlight's college and scholarship tools can help you kickstart your search! Join us as we help you get started and feel confident tackling your search and application process. Learn more about when it is best to apply for scholarships and identify which scholarships are best for you.

Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 3)

Donnie Yang, Mary Khalil, Pa Vang, and Warsan Abdi

Hear from Genesys Works alumni who have been through the high school internship experience about tips for thriving in the internship experience.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Tips

Emily Spoden

Come to this session to learn more about how to afford college, including an introduction to FAFSA and scholarships.

Tips for Building a Professional Network

David Edgerton Jr.

Join this session to learn tips and tools for building your professional network. These skills will be incredibly useful as you enter your internship experience and begin to meet new professionals at your company and other events you attend!

Alternative Pathways Instead of College

Brandon Beaulieu

Not sure if college is the right fit for you after high school? Come to this session to learn about some alternative pathways to start your career.

Warsan Abdi
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 3)

Warsan Abdi is an incoming freshman at Metropolitan State University, majoring in computer science. She spent the past year interning at Prime Therapeutics, she was a part of the help desk and field operations team. Warsan spends her free time looking for an adventure. She also loves to spend her time with friends and family.   

Brandon Beaulieu
Alternative Pathways Instead of College

Brandon Beaulieu (he/him) is the College Career Connections (CCC) Specialist at Genesys Works– Twin Cities. Along with supporting a cohort of young professionals during their internship, Brandon works to support young professionals with their post high school planning through our CCC program. Brandon started working at Genesys Works in June of 2021. Prior to working at Genesys Works, Brandon spent a semester as a Graduate Assistant at Southern Illinois University- Carbondale in fall of 2020. Brandon graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Stout in May of 2020 with a B.S in Psychology and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies.  

David Edgerton Jr.
Tips for Building Your Professional Network

David Edgerton Jr. is the managing principal for The DEJ Group, an executive search and recruiting firm that focuses on finding and connecting exceptional diverse talent with inclusive companies. The firm also provides executive coaching and custom training services for minority entrepreneurs and business professionals. 

David has over twenty-four years of corporate experience and also has served as an adjunct professor for over eleven years – teaching information technology, project management and business analytics.  With his passion in minority business development, David serves an entrepreneur-in-residence at the University of Minnesota to assist and coach startups as a part of the Discovery Launchpad MN program and also facilitates content for the Ascend Twin Cities program in partnership with JPMorgan Chase, the Metropolitan Economic Development Association, and the Carlson School of Management.  He also serves a mentor in the community entrepreneurship program at the University of Saint Thomas. 

David has a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from North Carolina A&T State University and an MBA from the Carlson School of Management. During his corporate career he has worked for several companies in the Twin Cities including Andersen Windows and Doors, Be The Match, Best Buy, Imation Corporation, Smead Manufacturing, and Ambient Consulting. 

David currently volunteers as a member of the board of directors for the Bethel University Foundation.  He is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. and serves as a church musician and worship leader at his church.  David is married to Michelle and has three children. 

 

Mary Khalil
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 3)

My name is Mary Khalil, and I am going to be a freshman at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Business and Management studying Management Information Systems. I went to Two Rivers High School last year and while being a student, I also participated in a Product Management internship at Best Buy, I plan to stay on with them my freshman year of college. My family is from Egypt, and I grew up with 4 siblings that I love to spend time with them as well my friends!  

Juli Scalf
Finding Your Best Fit Colleges & Scholarships with College Greenlight

Juli Scalf is the partner Engagement Manager for College Greenlight, a nationwide effort uniting colleges and community-based organizations (CBOs) to reduce barriers for students who have traditionally experienced obstacles when applying to colleges. She supports a network of over 1,500 CBOs with access to College Greenlight’s free resources and connections to hundreds of college partners. Prior to joining College Greenlight, Juli supported students in finding their best-fit college while working at two Chicago-based CBOs.   

Emily Spoden
Scholarship Tips & Financial Aid

Emily Spoden (she/her) is a Program Manager at Genesys Works. In her time with the program, she has worked with hundreds of Young Professionals on college and career development. She is eager to share the tips she’s learned over the years about how to successfully navigate the college financial aid process. 

Pa Vang
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 3)

Pa Vang (she/her/hers) graduated from North Hennepin Community College with an Associates of Science in Accounting and is an incoming freshman at the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities (Carlson School of Management) hoping to continue her education in Accounting in addition to International Business and Asian & Middle Eastern Studies. As a part of Genesys Works class of 2022, she interned at Target in a software developer position. She hopes to help the incoming Young Professionals by giving advice and sharing about her experience.  

Donnie Yang
Going from Surviving to Thriving in Your Internship (Session 3)

Donnie Yang (He/Him/His) graduated from Brooklyn Center High School in the class of 2022. He is an incoming freshman at Augsburg University and completed their 5-week Summer Bridge Program. Donnie is majoring in Computer Science. He interned at Target as part of the Hi-Tech Team responsible for on-site equipment set-ups, preparing and shipping equipment to remote team members, and troubleshooting equipment issues. Donnie really enjoyed working with his teammates in Hi-Tech who he found to be very helpful and knowledgeable. Donnie encourages interns to have fun during their internship to make the most of their experience. Donnie has a wide variety of hobbies and interests and enjoys learning new things. In his free time, Donnie enjoys volunteering, bingeing anime (his favorite anime is One Piece), and gaming.  

Prize #4 Break #4 & Closing | 2:45 - 3:00pm

Prize Break #4 & Closing

Closing, 3:00pm

Session Overviews, Speaker Bios & SUCCESS Plan Guide