The 865 Academies have been pivotal in shaping the academic and career aspirations of students like Farragut High’s Jane Davanzo, Camille Faugot, and Rebecca Pack.
These student ambassadors shared their diverse experiences and the unique opportunities the academies have provided, contributing to their growth and career outlooks.
For Davanzo, the journey began with a keen interest in construction, a field she was eager to explore more deeply.
“Initially, I thought the academies would be an opportunity to get into construction because it’s a hard class to get into,” Davanzo said. “But once I started, it really gave me a sense of community with my teachers and peers.
Faugot had a different starting point. Coming from a homeschooling background, the transition to public school was a new experience in itself.
The Freshman Academy introduced her to the structure and opportunities within the 865 Academies.
“I didn’t really know what the academies were until the first day of school, where we learned about the freshman seminar class and the overall program,” she said.
For Faugot, the Freshman Academy provided a seamless transition into the broader school environment and allowed her to explore potential career paths.
Pack, on the other hand, entered the program with a clear interest in business management. The 865 Academies helped her refine this interest and consider career options.
“When I came in freshman year, I knew I wanted to do something in business, but the program suggested various paths like marketing and management, which expanded my horizons,” Pack shared.
The 865 Academies don’t just focus on classroom learning. They offer practical experiences that prepare students for their future careers.
Davanzo highlighted her experience in the construction pathway, where she became OSHA-10 certified and learned the intricacies of tool safety and usage. She also mentioned impactful field trips, such as visiting commercial construction sites and businesses, which provided real-world insights into different industries.
Similarly, Faugot gained valuable certification in CPR through her health science classes, while Pack benefited from business-related field trips and networking opportunities.
These experiences have not only enriched their educational journey but also equipped them with practical skills and certifications that will be beneficial in their future careers.
The program’s emphasis on work-based learning and internships further enhances the students’ readiness for the workforce.
Davanzo is looking forward to potential internships in residential renovations, while Faugot is excited about a work-based learning opportunity that will allow her to gain practical experience in a medical setting.
Beyond academics and career preparation, the 865 Academies have also fostered personal growth among students.
Davanzo emphasized how the program helped her build confidence, especially as she ventured into a male-dominated field like construction.
“I was too scared to take construction freshman year, but the program helped me gain confidence and embrace my passion,” she said.
Faugot and Pack echoed similar sentiments, noting how their involvement in the academies and the ambassador program helped them develop public speaking skills and a stronger sense of community.
The ambassador program itself has been a highlight for these students, allowing them to engage more deeply with the school community and develop leadership skills.
“Being an ambassador has helped me grow closer to the staff and feel more welcomed at school,” Pack noted. Faugot added that the program provided a platform to help new students transition smoothly into high school life.
The 865 Academies have significantly impacted the students at Farragut High School, providing them with valuable academic, practical, and personal development opportunities. These experiences have not only shaped their career outlooks but also prepared them to confidently pursue their future aspirations.