Each month, the FSDB Career Development Department selects a Student Employee of the Month. Students in the after-school campus work program will be chosen based on their excellent work ethic in their respective paid positions on campus after school.
For the month of December, we are recognizing Mika Bremke, a senior in the Deaf Department. She works as a Concession Stand Assistant. Here is what her supervisor, Chris Lennon, had to say about Mika:
"Mika is always willing to work and do things without being asked to. She follows directions on what to do and is a very hard worker. She gets things done. Mika shows up on time and communicates with the staff effectively."
Employee Spotlight Interview with Mika
Why did you want to work for the Concession Stand?
Prior to being a Concession Stand Assistant, I was a Recreation Department Assistant for nearly two years. I'm happy working in this new position because it's my senior year and this position provides me flexibility with my hours. My boss supports me with all things education-related and believes in the importance of doing well in school. I feel like I have a good work-school balance and am able to give time to myself to do things I need to do.
How do you balance your career and education?
I just make it work, I don't know how I do it. I guess I'm naturally good at it. It's just in me and how I'm capable of balancing things together.
What advice do you have for students who want to work on campus?
To have a really good understanding of how to manage your emotions. To understand when to let go of school drama while you're working. That's a good basic life skill to have. Also to obtain good communication skills. You shouldn't say things like, "What's up, homie?" Even if you know the person, or if the person is your friend; it's not an ideal thing to say towards a customer. Lastly, if you make mistakes, own up to them and know it's okay to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. As long as you are honest with yourself and those around you.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
Helping to resolve communication barriers between my boss, who is Deaf and my co-worker, who is Blind. Ensuring the lines are well organized to avoid it getting out of hand and making sure people are moving along and not standing idly, blocking other customers from ordering and paying for their food.
What do you like most about your job?
The ability to connect with my boss by having authentic conversations about funny things, life, family, and so on. It is refreshing to not be tied down to having only work conversations with your boss. It shows me that bosses are also human beings and they do have a life of their own. Also, I like that I'm able to connect with more people in this position I'm in.
What are your plans after FSDB?
I'm going straight to college. I just got accepted to Tallahassee Community College yesterday (December 1st) and then, I plan to transfer to Florida State University after two years once I get my Associate's Degree. I'm hoping to major in substance abuse therapy, criminology, psychology, or maybe even business. I'm not set on it yet.
If you can choose one food to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Mac and cheese.
Any random facts you would like to share with us?
I consider myself talented in the art of makeup. Ever since I was a kid, I've loved putting on makeup. I don't put on makeup to feel pretty, I use the art of makeup to express myself.
If you could be an animal, what would you be?
A cat because of how adaptable they are.
About the After School Campus Work Program
The FSDB After School Campus Work Program provides additional Career Development opportunities to FSDB students (16+) through a structured campus work program delivered outside of the academic day. Students 16 years of age or older will have the opportunity to apply for vacant positions. Students go through a competitive hiring process. They review job postings that include a detailed job description, essential functions, and qualifications.
About FSDB
The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind is a tuition-free state public school in historic St. Augustine, available to eligible pre-K and K-12 students who are deaf/hard of hearing, blind/visually impaired or deafblind. The FSDB experience gives students the edge to do more, be more, and achieve more, fulfilling our vision of preparing them for a lifetime of success. Early intervention and outreach services are also available throughout the state of Florida. Private donations help to support programs that directly benefit students which are not covered by state funds. To inquire about enrollment, contact Parent Services at 904-827-2212 or 904-201-4527 VP. To schedule a campus tour, contact Outreach Services at bit.ly/fsdbtours. For more information, visit fsdbk12.org.
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