Girls participate in a Teen Esteem event at Brock on June 10.

Youth University hosted 30 teen girls this month as part of the annual Teen Esteem program aimed at improving self esteem.

The unique school-based program was held in conjunction with the Business Education Council of Niagara. It offers four school-based lunch sessions with girls in Grades 6 to 8. Each session is led by Brock student volunteers, and involves students, faculty and staff who share experiences about their careers and life choices.

This year’s spring program culminated with an event hosted by Youth University on June 10. In partnership with Brock Career Services, the event included a campus tour, an online career choice inventory and the chance to learn about post-secondary education options in Niagara.

It was the first time many of the girls had visited Brock. “I’m going to have a class in here one day,” one of them said while stopping on the tour to see a lecture hall.

“Many of the girls were interested in how furthering their education would help them to get the career they want,” said Maggie Yu, Youth University staff member. “They want to understand the steps and subjects that they need to take in order to get there.”

“Fortunately, Convocation was happening this week,” said Brittany Mauro, a staff member who lead a campus tour. “The girls said they would be walking up to the podium one day.”

Youth University works with more than 8,000 youth every year to help them meet their full social, emotional and educational potential, and to expose them to university life.

Links:
• Youth University
• Business Education Council of Niagara