High Impact Practices Student Showcase Spring 2025

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Course Code

COM

Course Number

4014

Faculty/Instructor

Dr. Michelle Dusseau

Faculty/Instructor Email

michelle.dusseau@ucf.edu

About the Author

Hello, my name is Beatrix Alerte, and I am excited to share my journey with you! As a communication major, passionate storyteller, and brand strategist connect brands with community. I believe in using my skills to uplift and connect others.

I want to take a moment to express my thanks to everyone who has supported me along the way. To my mentors and professors who have poured knowledge and encouragement into me. To the organizations and community leaders who have given me opportunities to learn, serve, and lead, I deeply appreciate the experiences that have expanded my perspective.

For my Service-Learning experience, I want to especially acknowledge University of Central Florida Alternative Break Program and Junior Achievement of Memphis and Mid-South for providing a space where I could apply my skills while making an impact. Your guidance and commitment to service have been inspiring, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute.

Abstract, Summary, or Creative Statement

During my spring break, I participated in the UCF Alternative Break Program, where I worked with Junior Achievement of Memphis to help educate students on financial literacy and career readiness. Junior Achievement provides hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to take on real-world roles in a simulated city. My role focused on mentoring students in the media radio station, where I guided them in creating advertisements, managing radio segments, and understanding media business operations.

Through this experience, I learned the power of experiential learning in preparing students for future careers. I also developed my ability to adapt my communication style to engage students of different age groups effectively. One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of early exposure to financial and media literacy, particularly for underserved communities. Many students had limited knowledge of budgeting and banking, highlighting the need for accessible financial education programs.

This experience reinforced my passion for mentorship and community impact. It also shifted my perspective on education showing me that hands-on experiences are one of the most effective ways to teach critical life skills. Moving forward, I plan to continue advocating for programs that provide youth with real-world learning opportunities that prepare them for personal and professional success.

Keywords

Experiential learning, Mentorship, Financial literacy, Career readiness, Media literacy, Junior Achievement, Community impact, Youth empowerment, Real-world learning, Underserved communities.

Shaping Future Leaders: Empowering Youth through Experiential Learning


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