Opportunity Knocks as College Opens Doors for Students

When opportunities are scarce, it’s hard to dream big and feel empowered. In past years, orphans at a certain school in Eastern Europe have had limited means to diversify their career options. Fortunately, a recently launched program from Allies, in coordination with the school and an industry college, is aiming to change all that.

Under the program, twenty orphans from the school were able to visit the industry college for a day-long event, where they learned about other possible professions they may explore.

Graduates, meanwhile, were invited to participate in a study group, where they were encouraged to consider a career in art or decorating. This was a welcome change, considering previous years’ graduates have been limited to the janitorial industry.

The new program is expected to help lead students to more opportunities—and consequently open their eyes to the different possibilities that education affords them. “To determine how and where AIYD can be of most help, we met with social workers from the school, including those who assist students with adapting to life outside,” one of the volunteers shared. “The deputy director of the industry college’s Study Department, as well as their resident psychologist, also attended the meeting. Our discussion was fruitful and ended on a high note, with Sasha, a student, even receiving the key to her own apartment.”

Tatiana, an AIYD volunteer, is optimistic about the program, as it teaches the students essential skills and gives them an opportunity to interact with others in a more natural setting.

“This program greatly helps children prepare for independent life. Here, they are not behind the fence of the orphanage; instead, they are in the company of other students,” Tatiana said. “They learn how to plan a budget and set goals for themselves, but if they encounter difficult situations, we are always here to help and support them.”

Sasha, the student who received an apartment, expressed equal excitement about his future, which now appears to be brimming with opportunity. “It was the happiest day of my life! I have my own apartment now and soon, when I get a profession, I will be able to live independently!"

 

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