Students Shadowed County Workers to Identify Potential Careers

Students got a behind-the-scenes view of careers in local government during Riverside County’s 16th Annual Youth-in-Government Day late last month. More than 90 students spent a day on the job in their fields of interest, learning from professionals about local government and identifying potential career paths. Last year, Christina Marquez, now a 17-year-old senior at San Jacinto High School, shadowed a mentor in the Human Resources Department. “The experience was an eye-opener because I wasn’t aware of that field and I did not have an interest in business. Now, I find myself drawn to (human resources). I look forward to participating this year and I strongly encourage others to get involved,” she said. Youth in Government Day was adopted by the Riverside County Youth Commission. Students learn about day-to-day government functions that range from citing code enforcement violators to helping at animal shelters. Last year, Sinporion Phuong, now a 17-year-old junior at Jurupa Valley High School, visited courthouses with a professional from the District Attorney’s office. “Youth in Government Day gave me the chance to discover a whole new path in life and ignited the passion to strive and be on that path,” Sinporion said. The event began with opening remarks by Supervisor Marion Ashley at the Riverside County Park District Headquarters in Rubidoux. Light breakfast was served and students convened with mentors afterwards.