As part of a mentoring program, community business leaders are taking the
time to educate Diamond Bar High juniors about what it’s like out in the real
world.

The students are part of the Pathways Communications Academy, a California Partnership Academy for sophomores through seniors. The first meeting of the year was held last week, with roughly 50 students from this school-within-a-school breaking into smaller groups to meet with nine mentors.

“The morning went really well,” said English teacher Lauren Osajima-Baird. “The mentors gave students real life advice including resume writing, how to present themselves in an interview, and even how to give a good handshake. More than anything it gives them the individual attention from a person working in the field that they have some interest in.”

“This is an important opportunity for our students that will benefit them throughout life,” said instructional dean Julian Rodriguez.

Meetings will be held the first Thursday of each month, lasting 90 minutes. Each session will be based on a theme or skill which will help the students after they graduate, with the last two meetings including mock interviews with instant feedback.

“They’re getting a leg up,” said civics/economics and modern American history teacher Megan Gwilliam.

Southern California Edison and AT&T took part in the program last year, and for the 2011-2012 school year will be joined by Nike, O.C. Weekly, Herbalife, and the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership.

To become a business partner, contact director Julie Salas at 909-594-1405.