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If it weren't for the Student Success Jobs Program (SSJP) at BWH, Cassandra Jean says she wouldn't be the confident and well-organized high school senior that she is today.
"There were so many benefits of this program," said Jean, who is graduating as valedictorian of her class at Urban Science Academy this month and headed to Boston University in the fall with hopes of becoming a pediatrician. "SSJP is a life lesson within itself. I learned so much, and that knowledge will stay with me no matter where I go in life."
A program of BWH's Center for Community Health and Health Equity (CCHHE), SSJP is now in its 14th year of matching Boston-area high school students with mentors across BWH for paid, year-long internships. The program is committed to building a talented, diverse health care workforce for the future of BWH, Partners HealthCare and for the larger health care community.
Many students participate in the program for more than one year, gaining experience in different departments and teams. SSJP also supports students with the college application process, provides SAT preparation and offers scholarships to graduating seniors with the financial support of Partners.
During the annual SSJP graduation ceremony on May 28, the program's 85 students-28 of whom are seniors-were recognized for their accomplishments. All of this year's graduating seniors have enrolled in a two- or four-year college program.
Troy Lilly, who is graduating from New Mission High School and will attend Boston College this fall, said he's grateful for all that he has experienced during the past three years while working in Central Transport Services. A practicing magician since seventh grade, Lilly said he will forever cherish the relationships he has made with fellow BWHers who have mentored and guided him throughout his SSJP experience. He plans to bring his magic tricks along with him on his journey to becoming a pediatric nurse, in hopes of brightening patients' days.
"I wanted to work in Central Transport because you have to be social and communicate with people every day," he said. "I admire my coworkers because of their social skills and ability to cheer patients up."
Boston Latin Academy senior John Keeley, who's preparing to move to California to attend Stanford University, has been similarly impacted by the relationships he's formed. As sad as he is to move on from BWH Pathology, he's grateful to have had the opportunity to spend three years getting to know the department and his colleagues.
Watching the students grow and succeed during the past year has been a highlight for Lisa Taylor-Montminy, program manager in the CCHHE. She's proud of each of them and their accomplishments.
"I've really seen this group mature into responsible, college-ready students," said Taylor-Montminy. "All of our students are serious about their futures and taking advantage of the opportunities afforded to them."