Students explore careers and build skills through One Summer Chicago

Students Gain Career Skills Through One Summer Chicago

This summer, students from Excel Academies of Chicago, with campuses in Roseland, South Shore, Southwest, and Englewood and part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, are gaining hands-on career experience. The opportunity to develop life skills and earn a paycheck comes from their participation in the One Summer Chicago (OSC) program.

Hands-On Learning and Local Partnerships Provide Real-World Experience

In partnership with the City of Chicago, OSC offers eligible youth part-time paid employment and enrichment activities for six weeks during the summer.

Each Excel Academy campus provides customized programming that’s aligned with local partnerships and resources. Students participate in a variety of workforce development opportunities, apprenticeships, creative enrichment classes including art and music, and hands-on skill-building programs designed to help them explore career paths, develop new talents, and earn while they learn.

“It’s about more than a paycheck,” said Anthony Haley Jr., Ed.D., regional director of Excel Academies of Chicago. “It’s about safe spaces, strong mentorship, financial literacy, and exposure to possibilities students may not see during the school year.”

Student Success Stories Highlight Program Impact

Several students secured employment at local businesses and organizations, including the Taylor Park District, hair salons, car washes, real estate agencies, boutiques, and even within their own schools as peer leaders and recruiters. Other standout experiences included civic engagement opportunities like volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository and participating in the Pour Me Project, where students expressed emotions through abstract painting and journaling.

Eric O., a returning participant, took photography and music production classes as part of his One Summer Chicago experience. “It helped me stay focused and meet new people. I want to do lifestyle photography outside of school, and this gave me a head start,” he said.

Keyonna pursued both music and cosmetology. “I already know how to do hair, but this made me want to take it further. A lot of people don’t have mentors. I’m lucky to have people here who care.”

Jennifer R. explored technology and interviewing skills. “I learned how to fix phones, write resumes, and even build a LinkedIn profile. That’s stuff that will stay with me.”

For Shanreria, creating an AI-based music artist character was a highlight. “It’s new, it’s creative, and it made me feel confident in my ideas.”

Hernan G. appreciated the exposure: “We get to see new places and think about how we can represent our city better.”

Kyie W., who worked at a car wash, said, “It’s not just about money, it’s about experience. Learning about electrical engineering and financial literacy now is going to help me later.”

Entrepreneurship, Technology, and Creative Arts Expand Career Horizons

Excel Southwest students explored entrepreneurship. Led by OSC coordinator Jamal Tillery, the team learned real estate skills, created listings, flew drones for home tours, and produced digital walk-throughs. “They’re getting experience people pay thousands for,” said Tillery. “We’re opening doors that most never knew existed.”

Staff also prioritized holistic wellness this year, offering yoga, calisthenics, and mindfulness sessions.

“We don’t see our kids moving much these days. We wanted to change that,” said Ricardo Waddy, director of programming at Excel Academy of Englewood. “And I wish someone had taught me how to manage money at their age.”

Financial Literacy Teaches Students to Save and Plan for the Future

Financial literacy is a key part of the program. Students are required to set aside a portion of their paychecks and are rewarded for meeting savings goals. This structure is helping students build better habits and, in some cases, avoid missing school or making risky decisions due to financial stress.

“For many, this is their first paycheck,” said Gregory A. Washington II, team leader at Excel Academy of South Shore. “They buy groceries, contribute to their families, and start seeing their value.”

Gerald Chapman, director of student services at Excel Academy of Roseland, noted the personal growth he’s seen in his students. “We teach professionalism, time management, and financial responsibility. Some even open real bank accounts. These are lessons that stick.”

“We’re not just keeping kids busy,” added OSC coach Juan Jones. “We’re giving them the tools they need to make real, positive decisions for their future.”

Program Builds Confidence, Experience, and Community Engagement

With a mix of real-world experience, mentorship, and career exploration, the One Summer Chicago program at Excel Academy offers students a powerful opportunity to grow. As the summer continues, they’re building confidence and experience that will carry them far beyond the classroom.