Real World Work Experiences Enable Inclusive College Students at Columbus State University to Emerge as Workforce Leaders By Kimberly Hudson
Students enrolled in the GOALS
at a local work site. The Posh
work-based practicum sites for
program at Columbus State
Peach, a woman-owned small
[GOALS] students so they can
University (CSU) are getting
business, was created by Erin
see what it’s like to have several
critical opportunities for real work
Widick, a CSU alumnus, in
different work experiences. These
experiences at the start of their
May of 2014. A former business
experiences provide opportunities
inclusive college careers.
marketing major, Widick “threw
for our students to explore a
everything [she] had into opening
variety of work options as well
Guidance and Opportunities
the boutique.” The Posh Peach
as pursue their interests and
for Academic and Leadership
offers a hand-picked collection
demonstrate their many gifts and
Success (GOALS) at CSU is a
of clothing, shoes, accessories,
abilities.” Many GOALS students
two-year college certificate for
and gifts for everyday life and
start at CSU without any past
individuals with intellectual and
special occasions. Widick’s goal is
work experience. These work-
developmental disabilities.
to provide high-quality items at
based practicum opportunities
an affordable price for the free-
allow students to try a variety
Thanks to a partnership with
spirited woman. She is also an
of different tasks, develop and
The Posh Peach, a small business
enthusiastic advocate for people
refine skills, and inform or guide
located within walking distance
with developmental disabilities.
their career goals. Additionally,
from the GOALS building on
Stephanie Marshall, former
work experience provides
CSU’s campus, GOALS students
special education teacher and
mentorship opportunities, builds
are getting an opportunity to
GOALS Program Coordinator,
a professional network, helps
have real-world work experience
is “constantly looking to find
students secure references and
22
MAKING A DIFFERENCE MAGAZINE
SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK
