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Neighbor News

North Branford High School Seniors Complete IgnitingTalent Internships

Students Experienced Potential Careers Via Micro Internships

JoeAbate Foundation Founder & President Meghan Abate (C) presents certificates and honor chords to NBHS Seniors Callie Holzer (L) and Sabrina Lin (R). Missing from photo: Kaleigh DeAngelo
JoeAbate Foundation Founder & President Meghan Abate (C) presents certificates and honor chords to NBHS Seniors Callie Holzer (L) and Sabrina Lin (R). Missing from photo: Kaleigh DeAngelo (Steve Curran)

N. Branford – North Branford High School Seniors Callie Holzer, Sabrina Lin and Kaleigh DeAngelo completed micro internships in Preschool Education, Photography, Private Investigation and Veterinary Services through the IgnitingTalent internship program for area high school juniors and seniors in partnership with local businesses and school counselors. The program is managed by the JoeAbate Charitable Foundation, Inc. and provides each student the opportunity to experience various professions based on their interests through a series of two-week, hands-on micro-internships, assisting them in discovering a potential career path.

“My IgnitingTalent experience taught me important and meaningful life lessons,” said Sabrina. “One being that a beloved occupation will provide you with joy and fulfillment greater than monetary value. I also learned the ability to speak with others, advocate for myself and stand out in a humble but confident manner.”

Students selecting a career from one of their micro internships are provided detailed requirements to enter the profession and receive a scholarship to cover initial expenses.

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“Sabrina, Callie and Kaleigh were very excited to participate in the IgnitingTalent Program and eager for new experiences,” said Jennifer Tzetzo, NBHS Senior Capstone Coordinator. “They don’t shy away from the unknown and completely enjoyed learning new skills.”

“My micro-internships helped me realize what I value in my future,” said Callie. “I want to be in a service career and do my best to make a difference in young children’s lives.”

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“It’s incredible seeing the growth in their confidence and maturity in such a short time,” says Mary Schneider, IgnitingTalent Program Manager. “We are lucky to work with dedicated school counselors like Jen and our wonderful Career Launchers (local businesses).”

The three Seniors received Certificates of Completion and an IgnitingTalent “honor chord” that they may wear with their cap & gown at graduation.

In addition to managing the IgnitingTalent program, the JoeAbate Charitable Foundation provides financial and emotional support to congenital heart families and is a partner with the CTHeart Camp, providing funding and in-kind support. Please go to www.joeabatefoundation.org for more information.

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