From social media posting to processing lab samples, two local high school students are assisting with Taubman Institute tasks through “Summer19,” a youth employment and mentoring partnership between U-M and local agencies.
Emoria Kimball, 17, and Josh Heningburg, 16, were matched with the institute after a “speed interview” night held at Washtenaw Community College in May. Their stint at U-M started in June and runs through late August.
Emoria, who aspires to own her own business someday, is spending the summer as the marketing and communications assistant, working with communications director Melissa Preddy on digital channels, the Taubman Prize media release and other communications duties. Josh, who is eyeing career options related to biological sciences, supports institute project manager Heidi IglayReger in areas ranging from data analysis to processing laboratory samples.
As part of the institute team, the Summer19 employees join meetings, participate in training and take part in enrichment activities such as campus tours. Taubman Institute Institute funds cover their salaries for time spent working and attending coaching sessions.
For the centerpiece of their Summer19 employment, the duo is researching and planning the Taubman Institute’s booth for Michigan Medicine’s Researchpalooza event. The August 15 expo is an opportunity for all Michigan Medicine departments to showcase their work at an outdoor festival aimed at engaging the larger U-M community in the process of medical research. Josh and Emoria plan to unveil an activity that will lure passersby to the institute booth to learn about TI programs in exchange for the opportunity to win prizes and claim handout swag.
Both students are completing their high school diplomas and simultaneously earning college credit through the Early College Alliance program at Eastern Michigan University. When she is away from the workplace, Emoria likes to travel, swim and watch favorite Neflix shows like “Stranger Things.” In his free time, Josh enjoys hanging out with his friends, traveling, and listening to music. His favorite place to travel is NYC, because of all of the diversity and excitement.
“Working at a place where you know you’re getting knowledge and education to enhance your future professional career is truly a blessing,” said Emoria. “I’m learning so much and am glad for the opportunity to be a part of the Taubman Institute team. I’m looking forward to seeing my contributions at Researchpalooza!”
