What happens when you start gaining real experience… and it changes how you see yourself?

In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we go deeper into the growth that comes from stepping into the real world. From building confidence and developing professional skills to learning through challenges, this conversation explores what personal and career growth actually looks like over time. It’s not just about trying different paths—it’s about who you become along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what real growth feels like, this episode is for you.

🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students navigating life after high school and discovering their path through Junior Achievement’s Fifth Year program. Learn more about the Fifth Year program: www.my5thyear.com

What happens when the career you thought you wanted isn’t the one you fall in love with?In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, Donovan shares how he went from exploring a future in news to discovering a passion for IT. He talks about the process of trying new things, learning what actually fits his interests, and how the Fifth Year program gave him the space to explore a path he never expected.If you’ve ever started down one path only to realize something else might be a better fit, this conversation is for you.🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students navigating life after high school and discovering their path through Junior Achievement’s Fifth Year program.Learn more about the Fifth Year program: www.my5thyear.com#FifthYear #CareerExploration #LifeAfterHighSchool #InformationTechnology #Podcast

What do you do when you graduate high school… but still aren’t sure what’s next?In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, students talk honestly about the pressure to have everything figured out after graduation — and why they chose a different path. From learning how to budget and manage real-world responsibilities to visiting local businesses and exploring different careers, they share what it’s actually like to take a year to grow, explore, and figure things out.If you’ve ever felt like everyone else had a plan except you, this conversation is for you.

🎙 The Fifth Year Podcast shares real stories from students navigating life after high school and discovering their path through Junior Achievement’s Fifth Year program.

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

#FifthYear #CareerExploration #LifeAfterHighSchool #YoungProfessionals #Podcast

After the closure of Lourdes University, many students, families, and supporters were left asking the same question: What’s next? In this episode, we speak candidly about this transition season, what it means, how we’re navigating it, and why this moment is not the end of The Fifth Year story. While we’re not ready to share every detail of what’s ahead, we give insight into the incredible support, conversations, and encouragement happening behind the scenes. What’s become clear is this: the mission is bigger than one campus. The community is stronger than ever. And the doors opening right now remind us that The Fifth Year was built for moments like this. Stay tuned. The next chapter is coming and it’s going to be strong.

In this episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, Robert and Sophia share what it was really like to go through their 5th Year experience. From stepping into new environments to building real connections, they reflect on the moments that helped them gain direction for their future.

Hear how site visits, mentorship, and hands-on experiences shaped their growth and why 5th Year became more than just an extra year. It became the year everything started to click.

If you’re still figuring out your next step, this conversation is for you.

In Episode 2 of The Fifth Year Podcast, we go deeper into what makes Fifth Year different.

Sabrina shares her personal journey, how she became part of the Fifth Year team, and why this program is so much more than a traditional gap year. We talk about what Fifth Year actually is, why it matters for students navigating their next step, and how real-world experience builds confidence and clarity.

Plus, Sabrina shares some of her favorite memories (and a few funny moments) from working with students along the way.

If you’ve ever wondered whether Fifth Year is right for you — this episode is a great place to start.

Why does Fifth Year exist?

In our very first episode of The Fifth Year Podcast, we break down the gap too many students face after high school — the lack of real-world experience, financial skills, and career clarity.

We talk about the problem Fifth Year was created to solve, why traditional paths don’t work for everyone, and how intentional experiences, mentorship, and exposure can change the trajectory for young adults.

This episode sets the foundation for what this podcast — and the Fifth Year program — is all about.