In this Pathways to Success episode, CRC student Amber Carroll (Class of 2027) interviews Ms. Jacquese Smith, the Laboratory Education Coordinator at Children's of Alabama. Ms. Smith shares her inspiring journey into healthcare leadership, from her biology studies at Tuskegee to her progression through roles at St. Vincent's East and Children's Hospital. Listeners will gain insights into Ms. Smith's passion for serving her community, her efforts to enhance training and foster collaboration, and her excitement about innovations in pediatric care. This episode offers valuable career advice, highlighting the importance of flexibility, a willingness to learn, and developing foundational skills - lessons that exemplify how following one's passion can lead to a fulfilling healthcare career.

In this episode of the Pathways to Success series, CRC student Jamaal Wilson interviews Dr. Elizabeth Baker, Associate Professor of Sociology at UAB. Dr. Baker shares her unconventional career journey, from dropping out of high school to becoming a college professor, and discusses how perseverance and a passion for learning shaped her path. She offers insights into her research on childhood obesity and health disparities, the value of soft skills like small talk, and practical advice for students preparing for college. This episode highlights the importance of resilience, adaptability, and embracing new opportunities.

In this episode of the Pathways to Success series, CRC student Amber Carroll (Class of 2027) interviews Shannon Weyer, Associate Director of Corporate Work Study for the Cristo Rey Network. Shannon shares her career journey, from her early work with AmeriCorps to her current role supporting schools across the nation. She discusses the importance of building authentic relationships, embracing challenges, and developing essential skills for success. This episode offers valuable insights into finding your path and making a meaningful impact in your career and community

In this episode of the "Pathways to Success" series, CRC student Jamaal (Class of 2025) interviews Mr. Mankinta Holloway, Court Administrator of the City of Birmingham's Municipal Court. Mr. Holloway shares his career journey, from initially considering a path in the military to finding his calling in public service and criminal justice. He discusses the key moments and decisions that shaped his professional development, including overcoming self-doubt and learning to embrace imperfection. He also offers advice for high school students on managing expectations, developing patience, and staying true to their goals, even when faced with challenges. This episode provides valuable insights into navigating a fulfilling career and the personal growth that can come from embracing setbacks and learning from mistakes.

In this episode of our "Pathways to Success" series, CRC student Jamaal (Class of 2025) interviews Ashley Knapp and Jason Milano from the Health Information Management Department of Children’s of Alabama. They discuss their career journeys, the importance of self-accountability, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI on the healthcare industry. This episode offers a unique look at how hard work and accountability lead to success and offers advice for students on navigating the real world and investing in themselves to achieve their goals..

In this inaugural episode of our new series, "Pathways to Success," Cristo Rey Creates students Jamaal (Class of 2025) and Amber (Class of 2027) sit down with Holy Family Cristo Rey's President Bo Garrett and Corporate Work Study Program Director Berkan Ciger. Together, they discuss why this new series is essential for students exploring career and college pathways, reflect on their own career journeys, and share insights about preparing for the future. Whether you're a student, educator, or professional, this episode sets the stage for a series designed to inspire and empower the next generation of leaders.

Earlier this month, Cristo Rey Creates had the opportunity to represent Holy Family Cristo Rey at the 2024 World of Work career expo presented by Central Six Alabama Works! We spoke with hundreds of students from across the Birmingham metro area about future careers, workforce development, content creation, and more: check out some of what they had to say in this short episode.

We're excited to be relaunching our podcast with a new series coming soon! Watch this space for more from Cristo Rey Creates in the coming weeks.

The students of Cristo Rey Creates interview S'Heelia Marks, an English teacher at Holy Family Cristo Rey, about teaching, college, and more.