Career Readiness & Professional Development Workshops Summer 2025
This summer, OLA-SYEP Interns explored career readiness and professional development through a wide range of workshops hosted by leading companies and institutions across New York City. From building financial literacy to practicing interview skills, exploring healthcare pathways, and even diving into the future of artificial intelligence, these experiences gave youth the tools to strengthen their skills, expand their perspectives, and prepare for their next steps.
1. Consent and Social Media – Morrison Foerster
At Morrison Foerster, OLA-SYEP Interns discussed how online interactions impact personal boundaries, strategies for safe and respectful communication, and the importance of making thoughtful digital choices.
2. Emotional Intelligence and Mental Health – Somat Culture Consulting
Marie from Somat Culture Consulting led two transformative workshops on emotional intelligence, mental health, and healthy relationships. Through storytelling and dialogue, interns learned that emotional regulation is not perfection but power, and that vulnerability is a form of leadership.
3. Negotiation and Trading – Morrison Foerster
OLA-SYEP interns learned how to navigate negotiations, assess risks, and make smart decisions in a hands-on workshop.
4. Financial Literacy – Abacus Bank
OLA-SYEP Interns attended a financial literacy workshop at Abacus Bank, where they learned practical money management skills, explored saving and budgeting strategies, and discussed the importance of building financial independence.
5. Architecture – Davis Brody Bond
OLA-SYEP Interns learned all about architecture and interior design, with a focus on creating spaces for youth that encourage creativity, leadership, and play.
6. City Planning and Design – NYC DDC
The NYC Department of Design & Construction hosted interns for an inspiring workshop on how real-world projects—from public art to city infrastructure—are planned and brought to life. Youth left with a new perspective on creativity, planning, and how cities are shaped.
7. Interview Readiness – Ares Management
At Mad Fun Farm, Ares Management hosted an empowering workshop on interview readiness, equipping interns with confidence and professional communication skills.
8. Nursing Pathways – NYC College of Technology
The OLA-SYEP Outdoor Play Interns visited New York City College of Technology for an eye-opening nursing workshop, where they learned about the nursing field, explored what it takes to pursue a nursing major, and even practiced checking heart rates and blood pressure.
9. Artificial Intelligence – Mount Sinai
At Mount Sinai, OLA-SYEP Interns were introduced to Artificial Intelligence and how it is shaping industries and communities today.
These workshops gave OLA-SYEP interns more than just career exposure—they offered hands-on skills, personal growth, and a broader vision of what leadership can look like. We are grateful to our partners, including Morrison Foerster, Abacus Bank, Ares Management, NYC Department of Design & Construction, Davis Brody Bond, NYC College of Technology, Mount Sinai, and Somat Culture Consulting, for making these experiences possible.