What skills do students need to succeed beyond the classroom?In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with Jasmine Smith to talk about communication, real-world skills, and what today’s students need as they prepare for life after high school.We dive into why communication takes practice, how students can become more comfortable having real conversations, and why understanding the value behind what you’re learning matters. We also talk about how AI is changing the way students learn, work, and communicate, and the skills that still matter in an increasingly digital world.🎙️ The Fifth Year Podcast explores career discovery, life skills, education, work, and what it really takes to figure out what’s next.#5thyear #communicationskills #lifeskills #careerexploration #ai

What does it take to build a stronger workforce right here in Northwest Ohio? In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with Brandon Ruiz, CEO of Nemsys, to talk about the impact of 5th Year, the importance of creating opportunities for young adults, and how paid internships can help students gain real-world experience and discover their path.We talk about career readiness, investing in local talent, and why partnerships between students and businesses matter for the future of our community. 🎙️ Tune in for a conversation about creating opportunities, building connections, and preparing the next generation for what’s next.

What does it take to prepare the next generation for success?In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with the Provost of The University of Toledo to talk about the partnership between UToledo and 5th Year, the importance of creating opportunities for students, and how education and real-world experience can work together to help young adults find their path.We talk about the future of education, career readiness, and why partnerships like this matter for students, employers, and the Toledo community.🎙️ Tune in for a conversation about creating pathways, building connections, and preparing students for what’s next.

From 5th Year to a Career That Fits 🌱Choosing your next step after high school isn't always a straight line — and that's exactly the point of 5th Year. In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with Logan Simok to talk about his own 5th Year journey and how it led him to his current role at Mercy Health.We discuss what it was like to take a year to explore before committing to a path, the moments that helped Logan discover healthcare as the right fit, and the skills and confidence he built along the way. You'll also hear his honest advice for students who are still unsure what they want to do next — and why that uncertainty doesn't have to be a setback.Whether you're a recent grad, a parent supporting a student through this decision, or just curious what a year of discovery can actually lead to, this episode offers a real look at how 5th Year can open doors you didn't know were there.🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students, families, alumni, and partners as they navigate life after high school through Junior Achievement's 5th Year program.Learn more about the 5th Year program: www.5thyear.org

Opening Doors to the Trades 🔨🎙️The skilled trades offer more than just a job—they offer a career you can build a future on. In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we're joined by representatives from the Central Midwest Carpenters to talk about the opportunities available in the trades and how students can turn hands-on skills into lifelong careers.We discuss apprenticeships, the benefits of joining the union, what employers are looking for, and why the demand for skilled tradespeople continues to grow. You'll also hear how the partnership between the Central Midwest Carpenters and 5th Year is helping students explore careers they may have never considered.Whether you're graduating high school, considering your next step, or simply curious about a career in the skilled trades, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students, families, alumni, and partners as they navigate life after high school through Junior Achievement's 5th Year program.Learn more about the 5th Year program: www.5thyear.org#FifthYear #TheFifthYearPodcast #SkilledTrades #CarpentersUnion #Apprenticeship #CareerReadiness #LifeAfterHighSchool #JuniorAchievement

The Fifth Year Podcast is back! 🎙️

To kick off our relaunch, we're introducing the newest class of 5th Year students before their journey officially begins. From rapid-fire questions and our Adulting Report Card to sharing what they're bringing into this next chapter—and what they're leaving behind—you'll get a first look at the personalities, goals, and perspectives of the Class of 2027.

Some answers are hilarious, some are surprisingly thoughtful, and all of them offer a glimpse into the students you'll be following throughout the year.

Whether you're a future student, parent, alumni, or just curious about what the 5th Year experience is all about, this episode is the perfect introduction to the next generation of Trailblazers.

Join us as we kick off a new season with fresh faces, big ambitions, and plenty of laughs along the way.🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students, families, alumni, and partners as they navigate life after high school through Junior Achievement's Fifth Year program.

Learn more about the Fifth Year program: www.5thyear.org

#FifthYear #TheFifthYearPodcast #GapYear #LifeAfterHighSchool #CareerReadiness #YoungProfessionals #JuniorAchievement #ClassOf2027

What happens when a high school internship turns into a career?In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with JA Alum Mustafa to hear about his journey. What started as a JA internship during his senior year of high school didn’t just give him early career exposure, it opened the door to long-term opportunity.Mustafa shares how that first experience helped him build confidence, gain real-world skills, and develop relationships that carried far beyond graduation.His story is a powerful example of what happens when students are given meaningful, hands-on experiences early on. It’s not just about exploring career paths, it’s about discovering where you belong and building toward something real.If you’ve ever wondered how one opportunity can shape an entire career, this episode is for you.🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students and professionals shaping their futures through Junior Achievement’s Fifth Year program.Learn more about the Fifth Year program: www.my5thyear.com#fifthyear #careerpath #internship #careergrowth #youngprofessionals #podcast

In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with the Edens family to hear their perspective on the Fifth Year experience.They share what it was like navigating the decision, how they’ve seen the program impact their student’s growth, and why opportunities like Fifth Year matter from a family point of view. From initial thoughts to reflections along the way, this conversation highlights the support, trust, and transformation that can happen when families are part of the journey.🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students and professionals shaping the future through Junior Achievement’s Fifth Year program.Learn more about the Fifth Year program: www.my5thyear.com#fifthyear #careergrowth #personaldevelopment #community #youngprofessionals #podcast

What happens when students step into a program that challenges them to grow, connect, and discover who they are?

In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with Faith and Mar’Quez to talk about their personal journeys through the Fifth Year program. From navigating new experiences and building confidence to forming real connections, they share how their time in the program has shaped both their mindset and their future.You’ll hear how they’ve grown not just as students, but as individuals—developing independence, strengthening their skills, and finding a community that supports and pushes them forward. Their stories highlight the power of being surrounded by people who are all working toward something bigger.

It’s not just about what you learn—it’s about who you become along the way.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to grow, connect, and figure things out with a community beside you, this episode is for you.

🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students and professionals shaping the future through Junior Achievement’s Fifth Year program.

Learn more about the Fifth Year program: www.my5thyear.com

#fifthyear #careergrowth #personaldevelopment #community #youngprofessionals #podcast

What happens when young adults are given real opportunities… and start stepping into the professional world early?In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we sit down with a local business leader to talk about the real impact of giving students hands-on experience. From building confidence and developing soft skills to forming meaningful relationships, this conversation dives into how early exposure to the workplace can completely change a student’s trajectory.You’ll hear how Fifth Year students go from unsure and timid to confident, prepared, and ready to take on the world—and why that transformation matters not just for them, but for the entire community.It’s not just about experience—it’s about connection, confidence, and finding your place.If you’ve ever wondered what makes the difference between feeling lost and feeling ready, this episode is for you.🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students and professionals shaping the future through Junior Achievement’s Fifth Year program.Learn more about the Fifth Year program: www.my5thyear.com#fifthyear #careergrowth #personaldevelopment #lifeafterhighschool #youngprofessionals #podcast