Blog & News
Promise Scholar- Shamond Bean
Shamond Bean's journey into post-secondary education has been anything but traditional. From navigating life as a tech enthusiast, moving between factory jobs, to now pursuing his passion for computer science at Lansing Community College, Shamond’s story is a testament to how education, hard work, and a supportive community can transform a life.
Elevate Your Success: Mastering Your Time
Congratulations, you’ve graduated and landed your first job! Transitioning from college life to a full-time career is a huge milestone, but it also comes with new challenges—one of the biggest being time management. You’re no longer juggling classes and assignments; now you’re working 9-to-5 (or more), and deadlines are just as crucial as they were in school. How do you manage your time effectively to excel in your role, and still have a life outside of work?
Kalamazoo Promise Launches Fourth Annual Regional Business Challenge to Hire College Promise Interns
The Kalamazoo Promise is excited to launch registration for Higher Promise 2025, an initiative challenging regional business partners to hire post-secondary Promise Scholars for paid summer internships.
Promise Scholar- Rianna Clay-Valdez
Meet Rianna Clay-Valdez, a senior at Western Michigan University majoring in Finance and Business Administration. Rianna’s journey is one of resilience, growth, and determination.
Elevate Your Success: How to Dress for the Workplace
Transitioning from college to the professional world can be exciting and challenging. One of the biggest adjustments is figuring out how to dress for your new environment. Whether you're heading to a corporate office, a creative startup, or a casual workplace, understanding the different dress codes is crucial. Here's a breakdown of four common dress codes you'll encounter: Business Professional, Business Casual, Business Smart, and Casual.
Promise Scholar-Reginald Phason
Meet Reginald Phason, a senior at Western Michigan University, currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management. As an entrepreneur, Reginald has always been intrigued by the business world and decided that expanding his knowledge on business growth and efficiency was essential to continue his entrepreneurial journey.
Promise Scholar- Samantha Vande Pol
Meet Samantha Vande Pol a driven student at Kalamazoo College, majoring in biochemistry and in Gender and Sexuality Studies. She is passionate about empowering women through healthcare and aims to break down myths and barriers surrounding women's health.
Elevate Your Success: How to Negotiate Salary
Congratulations on landing your full-time job! You are in, and you've shown that you are the person they need for their company. Now, you're facing another crucial step: negotiating your salary. Negotiation can seem daunting, especially when it's your first time, and you might need someone in your immediate circle to guide you. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you confidently negotiate your salary and set a strong foundation for your career.
Elevate Your Success: Preparing for a Job Interview
Navigating the job market can be a scary experience, especially for young professionals transitioning from school to full-time roles. One of the most critical steps in this journey is facing the job interview. Preparation is key, and this guide will walk you through three essential areas: researching the company, dressing appropriately, and mastering the STAR method for answering interview questions.
Promise Scholar- Belsem Aldiney
Meet Belsem Aldiney, a Promise Scholar, on her path to becoming a pharmacist at Ferris State University. Aldiney developed a passion for medicine inspired by her childhood dream of making a difference.
Elevate Your Success: Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch
Firstly, what is an elevator pitch? Picture yourself stepping into an elevator with your dream employer, a potential mentor, or a future collaborator. In the brief span of that elevator ride, you have the opportunity to make a memorable impression and sell yourself, your ideas, or your aspirations clearly—that's the essence of an elevator pitch.
Promise Scholar- Cain Sandoval
Meet Cain Sandoval, a scholar on his academic journey at Western Michigan University. Sandoval's major is in Digital Media and Journalism, with a minor in Global and International Studies.
Promise Scholar- Abrianna Ramos
Abrianna Ramos, currently enrolled at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, is pursuing her studies in Early Childhood Education. Her academic journey has been marked by unwavering support from her loved ones, who have stood by her through every challenge.
Promise Scholar- Mia VandenBerg
Mia VandenBerg, a current senior at Western Michigan University, is pursuing a degree in human resource management at the Haworth College of Business. Throughout her academic journey, she has actively utilized the various resources provided by Western to advance her professional career.
Promise Scholar- Zjanice Carter
Zjanice Carter is a remarkable University of Michigan student majoring in Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management who is making waves as a young entrepreneur and mother.
Thank you, Alexia
The Kalamazoo Promise congratulates former Scholar Engagement Manager Alexia Jones, who made a lasting impact at The Promise and has embarked on a new adventure in Washington, D.C. at Goodwill of Greater Washington.
Kalamazoo Promise Launches Third Annual Regional Business Challenge to Hire College Promise Interns
The Kalamazoo Promise is excited to launch registration for Higher Promise 2024, an initiative challenging regional business partners to hire post-secondary Promise Scholars for paid summer internships.
Thank you, Jake
The Kalamazoo Promise extends our congratulations to our former Digital Media Manager, Jake Waggoner, who has embarked on a new journey pursuing his business, Defined Lines Marketing, as a full-time endeavor.
