Success is when...

This week, we toured Tanner Medical. They partner with our school and hire students as unpaid interns. Initially you would think only the medical students attend. However, HVAC, Graphic Arts, Marketing, Information Technology and Culinary were all able to attend. Once we had our tour of the kitchen and bistro, the kitchen manager talked to the kids about the intern opportunities that are available to them. It became real to them when they saw and heard the story of the 2 tour guides one of which is 18 who was currently working there full-time and running the Bistro. This was all possible because of the same exact program they are currently in. The manager discussed the importance of a strong work ethic and having the proper attire. With me coming in after their old chef, I believe they didn't think I knew what I was talking about or maybe just wasn't ready to hear from me yet. As I listened to them mumble as the tour ended, many of them said "Chef, he sounded just like you! The next day, the counselor stopped by to hand out sign up sheets for the Tanner opportunity. I have never heard them asking questions with such genuine interest in their future. I think, added together, everything made the light bulb turn on pretty bright. Some signed up for Tanner, others signed up for the Carrollton Club (an assisted living facility) and other pathway completers decided to take a 2nd pathway. THAT is what it is about....Success is when preparation meets opportunity (and the light bulb goes off) then I look back and say, I actually had a small part to play in all of that. This really is the life!