Mike recently participated in the Federal Public Sector Youth Internship Program (FPSYIP) and here is his story in his own words.

My success story actually begins prior to my involvement with the YMCA. I had hit a low point in my life. I had little to no money, no job and my personal life was in unrest. My girlfriend had recently left me and my brother was in the hospital with a serious illness.

It was in this time I reflected on myself and decide on my life direction. I decided that finding a new job would be my new goal. It was, after all, the most urgent priority.

During my search I found a number for the YMCA in the newspaper. I registered for an information session which meant little to me at the time. I forgot about it and went to work for the engineering company.

The info session date crept up and I was committed attend and keep my life moving in a positive direction. I was intrigued to with what I found, but needing to commit to time without pay made me nervous.

I explained my situation to my boss and told him I wouldn’t be available for a whole week. His responded positively and I was about to begin the Federal Public Sector Youth Internship Program (FPSYIP).

I went into the week not knowing what to expect, but decided to concentrate on myself and how I could grow. In hindsight I feel that this was what allowed me to compete with all the other potential interns. The week was a valuable experience and I realized the potential gains from a 10 month internship at a Government entity.

I went back to work with renewed energy and the desire to take another chance. I was granted a few interviews with various government agencies that I had expressed interest in, my three top choices as a matter of fact. My first interview was with my eventual mentor.

Luckily for me this is where the real progress began. FPSYIP had a month of pre- employment training arranged to develop skills and confidence as well as trying to encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

The next month changed my life permanently. I gained focus and organization from simple methods taught to me by the FPSYIP staff. What was key to my success was confidence. At the end of the month, I saw the potential I had always suspected I possessed but never actually activated.

My first day on site rapidly approached and before I knew it I was at my host site with my new mentor. I was nervous and driven. Luckily for me my Mentor was one of the most laid back and supportive bosses I have had the pleasure to work for. Once I was on site it was up to me to continue my positive motion and growth as the YMCA had stepped back as it was into an observing stance.

I have learned an incredible amount about myself, the host site, effective skill development from both the YMCA, host site and my mentor. I also learned how to continue that trend. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to grow and begin my life with renewed energy and direction.