2024 Career Newsletter #5
Crafting Future Leaders: Building Career-Ready Students!

Welcome to the 5th Career Newsletter for the 2024-2025 School Year!
Marching Into Opportunities!
🚀🌱Spring is in the air, and so are fresh opportunities! As we step into March, it’s time to shake off the winter blues and march toward success. Whether you’re searching for a part-time job, prepping for summer internships, or just figuring out your next move, this newsletter has the tools to help you bloom. 🌸
Inside, you’ll find job openings, career tips, and resources to keep you ahead of the game. So, take a deep breath, dust off that résumé, and let’s make this month one for the books!
Ready, set, grow! 🌟💼
Effective July 21, 2021
Lifeguard I Hobart Family YMCA - Hobart, IN
Protect, serve, and make a splash – become a lifeguard at the YMCA today!
POSITION SUMMARY: This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Delivers excellent service to all members, guests, and program participants. Under the direction of the Aquatic Leadership the Lifeguard is responsible for providing a safe and positive atmosphere that welcomes and respects all individuals while promoting and maintain safe swimming conditions in the pool, deck and surrounding areas in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Maintains active surveillance of the entire pool area including pool deck.
- Knows and reviews all emergency procedures and responds to emergency situations immediately in accordance with YMCA policies & procedures; completes related reports as required.
- Practice preventative lifeguarding by following and enforcing pool rules and policies, and routinely completing and documenting safety check of pool, deck area, and equipment.
- Remains calm and objective when under pressure or when challenged by others and act accordingly.
- Maintains accurate records as required by the YMCA and/or the state health department code.
- Checks and records water temperature and chemical levels on a regular basis when not guarding and notify supervisor of any irregularities.
- Attend all meetings and trainings as assigned.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Current nationally recognized certification. Including current First Aid, BLS and Oxygen Administration.
- At least six months or two season of lifeguard experience.
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills.
- Must demonstrate the ability to pass the basic lifeguard skills in accordance with YMCA standards.
- Must maintain certification-level physical and mental readiness.
- Ability to relate and communicate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.
- Minimum of 16 years of age. Minimum of 18 years of age & high school degree preferred.
- Within 30 days of hire, complete all New Employee Orientation trainings.
Now Hiring: Summer Positions at Depot Hot Dogs!
Now Hiring: Summer Positions at Depot Hot Dogs!
Depot Hot Dogs in Portage is looking for motivated students (ages 14-19) to join our team for the April-October season! If you’re looking for flexible, part-time work with hands-on experience in a fun and welcoming environment, this is the perfect opportunity.
Why Work at Depot Hot Dogs?
- Flexible scheduling that works around school hours
- Daytime and afternoon shifts only—no late nights
- Direct training from the owner, Derrick Bass
- Supportive, family-owned business with a strong community focus
- Seasonal work with fall and winter months off
- Great first job experience—build life skills and customer service knowledge
- Engage with the public and be part of a local tradition
How to Apply:
- Pick up a paper application at Depot Hot Dogs (Click here)
- Fill out a digital application on our Facebook or Instagram pages
Questions? Contact Derrick Bass via email bquick07@gmail.com
Kickstart your summer with a fun, rewarding job that helps you build valuable work experience while making some extra cash!
>>Congrats! You're in college. Now let us help you master college's challenges.
>>>Use our tips, helpline, and job search tool to find and do well in your first job.
Retail Sales Associate | Best Buy | Merrillville
Full job description
As a Retail Sales Associate, you’ll be the face of Best Buy for everyone who visits our stores. We’ll train you with the skills and knowledge you need to confidently recommend the right tech products and solutions for each customer. By creating a great shopping experience and inspiring people with what’s possible, you’ll help us enrich lives through technology.
Basic qualifications
3 months of experience working in retail or another fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Ability to work a flexible schedule, including holidays, nights and weekends
Customer Service Associate | Walgreens | Portage
Full job description
- Models and delivers a distinctive and delightful customer experience.
- Registers sales on assigned cash register, provides customers with courteous, fair, friendly, and efficient checkout service.
- Engages customers and patients by greeting them and offering assistance with products and services. Resolves customer issues and answers questions to ensure a positive customer experience.
- Models and shares customer service best practices with all team members to deliver a distinctive and delightful customer experience, including interpersonal habits (e.g., greeting, eye contact, courtesy, etc.) and Walgreens service traits (e.g., offering help proactively, identifying needs, servicing until satisfied, etc.).
Sales Associate (FT/PT) | Petland | Merrillville
Full job description
WHY PETLAND IS A GREAT PLACE TO WORK:
Petland is more than a job, it’s a pet loving community. We’re looking for people with an unwavering love for animals who want to build or advance their career in a fun and rewarding environment. Imagine coming to work every day knowing that you help create lasting connections between pets and their new families. Turn your pet passion into a fulfilling career at Petland! #PetlandCareers #AnimalLoversWanted
Watch the Petland career video here: https://vimeo.com/951590665?share=copy
CEC Entertainment (Chuck E. Cheese)| Merrillville
Full job description
At CEC Entertainment, we build careers around great food, family, and fun! Our purpose and our passion is to create the best place for kids and families to eat and play!
Job Description
Work Today, Get Paid Tomorrow” program. Don’t wait between paychecks anymore!
Chuck E. Cheese (CEC) is a great place for a first-time job seeker or a place to build an exciting career. Our Cast Members are empowered to provide the greatest service anywhere through cross-training in a variety of different positions. Over 60% of our managers were promoted from within!
Now Hiring Cashiers
Cashiers are the frontline of guest service as they take orders, process payments, help with prizes and more.
Pay and Benefits:
Chuck E. Cheese now offers access to earned wages with our NEW “Work Today, Get Paid Tomorrow” program. Don’t wait between paychecks anymore!
- Competitive pay
- 50% discount on meal during shift
- Work Today, Get Paid Tomorrow program
- Flexible schedules
- Scholarships
- Perks and Discounts programs
- Employee Referral Program
- CEC Cares Fund (program to assist employees during catastrophes)
Minimum Qualifications:
- Be at least 15 years of age
- Available to work various shifts
- Excellent customer service skills
- Energetic and enthusiastic personality
Retail Cosmetics Sales Beauty Advisor | Macy's | Southlake Mall
Job Overview
As a Cosmetic Sales colleague, also known as a Beauty Advisor, your focus is to support the Beauty needs of our customers to drive sales. Both a product educator and beauty enthusiast, you specialize in making our customers feel beautiful and confident. You are focused on building a client base and nurturing strong client relationships in order to meet sales goals. You embrace innovation by leveraging new selling ideas and are comfortable communicating with customers virtually and via phone. You will provide customer consultations, including applying make-up and products.
What we can offer you
Join a team where work is as rewarding as it is fun! We offer a dynamic, inclusive environment with competitive pay and benefits. Enjoy comprehensive health and wellness coverage and a 401(k) match to invest in your future. Prioritize your well-being with paid time off and eight paid holidays. Grow your career with continuous learning and leadership development. Plus, build community by joining one of our Colleague Resource Groups and make a difference through our volunteer opportunities.
Some additional benefits we offer include:
- Merchandise discounts
- Performance-based incentives
- Annual merit review
- Employee Assistance Program with mental health counseling and legal/financial advice
Team Member | Taco Bell | Hobart
WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Pay ranges vary from $10-$15 per hour based on experience and location.
- Flexible Scheduling - Full & Part Time Positions
- Same Day Pay*
- Employee Referral Bonus
- A Path for Advancement
- Free Employee Meals
- Paid Time Off after one year.*
- Discounts available with AT&T, Disney, Lyft, Great Wolf Lodge and more!
- Live Mas Scholarship
- Our restaurants are closed for Christmas and Thanksgiving so you can spend quality time with family.
- Supportive above restaurant leadership team.
Key Responsibilities for a Taco Bell Team Member:
- Greeting customers in the restaurant and drive-thru.
- Handling payment and thanking customers for their patronage.
- Preparing Food and Beverage Orders
- Maintaining a clean, safe work environment.
Sandwich Artist | Subway | Hobart
Full job description
Come join our growing team!
Each day we prepare customized food for our guests while maintaining a clean and organized restaurant.
Earn $12 per hour plus guest tips!
Complimentary sandwiches and drinks are also included on every shift.
Team Member | Wendy's | Hobart (61st Ave)
Interview today. Start tomorrow. Get paid tomorrow.
Pay/Benefits:
- Competitive pay with review and raise opportunities during first 30, 60, and 90 days of employment
- Medical, dental, and vision plans
- Schedule flexibility
- Fast paced and fun environment
- Treatment as a valued team member by all staff
Crew Member | Chipotle | Hobart
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU
Tuition assistance (100% coverage for select degrees or up to $5,250/year)
Free food (yes, really FREE)
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Digital Tips
Paid time off
Holiday closures
Competitive compensation
Full and part-time opportunities
Opportunities for advancement (80% of managers started as Crew)
WHAT YOU’LL BRING TO THE TABLE
A friendly, enthusiastic attitude
Passion for helping and serving others (both customers and team members)
Desire to learn how to cook (a lot)
Be at least 16 years old
Ability to communicate in the primary language(s) of the work location
Search by skills. View salaries. One-click apply.
Dontay Robinson Jr - Career Closet Success Story
This month, we are highlighting Dontay Robinson Jr., who successfully used the career closet to take the next step toward his career goals and attend the Youth & Govt event in Indianapolis. His story is a great reminder that preparation and the right resources can open doors to new opportunities.
Career Attire Needed | Hobart High School | Career Closet
Next Level Jobs
Next Level Jobs provides Hoosiers with free state-wide training in high-paying, in-demand industries. Next Level Jobs also provides Indiana employers with reimbursements up to $50,000 to train their employees in these high-growth fields.
We Build NWI
We Build Northwest Indiana was created as a resource for individuals interested in career opportunities within the construction and maintenance industry. Some career opportunities may require a college degree while most require a comprehensive training and education program known as apprenticeship. Successful applicants generally possess three common attributes:
- They have a strong work ethic
- They are responsible
- They are dedicated to being the best
Indiana Plan
The Indiana Plan's mission is to address and correct the problem of low minority participation in the union-building trades. To do this, we offer comprehensive services for both the signatory contractors who work with us to find recruits and also for the minority and women workers we help train and find jobs in the union construction industry in Indiana.
Kickstart Your Career:5 Essential Suggestions for Teens Entering the Job Market
1. Start with Self-Assessment: Know Your Strengths and Interests
- Why It Matters: Understanding what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing helps you find a job that suits you.
- Actionable Tip: Make a list of your hobbies, skills, and favorite subjects. Look for jobs that align with these interests.
2. Explore Different Job Opportunities: Where to Look
- Why It Matters: Knowing where to find job openings increases your chances of landing a job.
- Actionable Tip: Check out local businesses, online job boards like Indeed or LinkedIn, and talk to school counselors about potential job leads.
3. Craft a Strong Resume and Cover Letter: Make a Great First Impression
- Why It Matters: Your resume and cover letter are often the first things employers see, so making them stand out is crucial.
- Actionable Tip: Keep your resume concise, focusing on skills, volunteer work, and any school projects. Tailor your cover letter to each job, explaining why you’re a good fit.
4. Develop Professional Communication Skills: Be Polite and Respectful
- Why It Matters: Good communication sets you apart in interviews and on the job.
- Actionable Tip: Practice speaking clearly, listening carefully, and responding politely. Always follow up after an interview with a thank-you email.
5. Learn Workplace Etiquette: How to Behave and Succeed
- Why It Matters: Knowing how to behave at work helps you maintain your job and grow in your role.
- Actionable Tip: Show up on time, dress appropriately, and be willing to learn. Respect your coworkers and take responsibility for your tasks.
MRS. VALENTINE TORRES, MBA
Career Liaison Coordinator | Business Department | Dual Credit Instructor | Hobart High School | Hobart University | Business Professionals of America | Communications Director TEDxHobartHighSchool
Ext. 8027
Email: vtorres@hobart.k12.in.us
Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valentinetorres/
Location: 2211 East 10th Street, Hobart, Indiana, USA
Phone: 219-942-8521
Twitter: @coachvtorres
Office of Student Placement/Guidance Department/Business Dept









