SHADOWING SUCCESS: STUDENTS EXPLORE POTENTIAL PATHS
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information with students. Their hope for the student that they would see “that a career in hospitality is fun, rewarding, and can take you anywhere in the world.” Giving them a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to work in hotels was one of the most rewarding parts of hosting the student. At the Chamber itself, staff also participated as hosts. “We believe in investing in future professionals and giving students a real-world glimpse into the variety of roles that make an organization run,” says Sophia van Oss, Senior Director, Communications & Design, Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce. “Participating in the job shadow program is a valuable way to support career exploration and help students connect classroom learning with practical experience. It was incredibly rewarding to see the student’s curiosity and engagement. As someone who in the past benefited from shadowing professionals who helped guide me along the path to my career, I know firsthand how impactful this can be. Being able to provide that guidance and see the
student’s excitement and growth firsthand was a truly meaningful experience.”
LOOKING AHEAD The Chamber is excited to see the Student Job Shadow Experience program continue to grow and develop into an important piece of its workforce initiatives. If interested in learning more on how your business can get involved, the Chamber is looking for new employers to join us in fall 2026. “In the long run, this early career exploration program ensures Rochester has a strong talent pipeline and that candidates are more informed and ready to succeed,” Henneman says. “It is an important piece to our workforce initiatives as Rochester and the surrounding areas continue to grow.” GET INVOLVED If your company or organization is interested in participating in next year’s program, contact Claire Henneman at chenneman@rochestermnchamber.com.
DECEMBER 2025 — ROCHESTER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ADVANTAGE MAGAZINE | 13
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