Student Success Story: Geo
Recently, Jobs for Ohio’s Graduates launched its exciting new Student Advocate program, designed to deepen participants’ engagement with our office and the broader community. Advocates like Geo help advocate for the needs of their peers, assist their Career Specialists and in behind-the-scenes work, as well as go into the community and represent JOG as model participants. From joining local roundtable discussions to providing peer support, these advocates are making a meaningful impact both inside JOG and beyond. One standout is Geo, whose journey reflects the leadership and growth we work to foster at JOG.
Geo first encountered JOG through friends in his school’s program, who enthusiastically shared their experience. These friends already were in the program and told him about some of the good things they had learned. Between being able to spend time with his friends and wanting to push himself, Geo joined Buchtel’s JOG class. He embraced the opportunity to learn how to adapt to new environments and collaborate with others.
A major transformation came in his confidence and communication. As Geo shared, “I would say that my biggest take away is better communication skills. I never used to be someone who would stand up and answer questions in public. I never thought I would be able to do that.” Geo added, “They have helped me be able to express my opinion and feel confident.”
He has been working on these new skills of adaptation with his Career Specialist since joining, and now he can light up a room! His performance didn’t go unnoticed, as he was handpicked to be one of our flagship Student Advocates. Geo credits JOG as the cornerstone of his success at work, and he’s eager to pay it forward. He told us, “If I met someone who wanted to join JOG, I would tell them to go for it! JOG helps you push yourself, learn new things, get work experience, and get outside your comfort zone.”
We couldn’t be prouder of participants like Geo. He is a young leader who not only has grown through the program but actively is helping others do the same. His energy, empathy, and willingness to lead by example are exactly what the Student Advocate program was created to do. As he steps further into this leadership role, we’re confident that his influence will inspire even more students to find their voices, challenge their limits, and meet their full potential.
