Hampton High students job shadow counseling professions

Stephanie Jackson Afonja, school board member and owner of Family Restoration Services, hosted juniors from Hampton High School as part of the Junior Job Shadow Experience. Students in the Academy of Health, Human and Financial Services, Counseling Pathway visited Afonja at her office on Tuesday, March 11.

Students kicked off their visit with an icebreaker activity and a brief introduction of Family Restoration Services and the importance of mental health careers. Students learned about counseling professions and discussed different educational pathways, required degrees, and job outlook. Different roles in mental health care include therapists, case managers, social workers, psychologists, etc. 

There was role-play for active listening and empathy. Staff also participated in a mental health assessment simulation and real-life crisis response scenarios. The visit concluded with questions and a building tour.

“I feel that the experience for the students was very well planned and executed,” shared Hampton High academy lead teacher Rita Raphael. “The students were engaged and asked great questions.”

 

"As a proud Hampton High alumna, school board member, and owner of a human services practice for the past 18 years, it was an honor to host these bright students at Family Restoration Services," said Jackson Afonja. "Providing a hands-on, immersive experience in counseling and mental health careers allows them to make informed decisions about their futures. The Academies of Hampton continue to set the standard for innovative education, and I’m thrilled to be part of shaping the next generation of professionals. I look forward to doing it again!"

The Junior Job Shadow Experience is part of the 11th-grade signature experience that provides a behind-the-scenes look at a career within an organization aligned with their academy. This job shadowing experience allows students to interact with and observe employees in a work environment. The program aims to equip students with invaluable insights into potential career paths. With alignment to specific academies, students see specific careers and/or organizations that provide real world exposure to careers to learn more about the nature of the job, the work environment and the education and/or training required to succeed.