My name is Sarah Kenny and I am a rising senior at Vanderbilt University. Although I go to school in Nashville, I am a Columbus girl born and raised. Having grown up here, I never really explored Columbus outside of my ‘suburban bubble.’

So I am very excited for my fellowship this summer. I am excited to learn more about central Ohio nonprofits, but also Columbus as a city!

This summer I have been paired with Junior Achievement Columbus. This organization works in partnership with schools to implement curriculums that teaches financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship.

My specific placement is with BizTown. This is one of many curriculums that JA offers. In this model, twenty-two lessons are taught in fifth grade classrooms in regards to how a community operates, how to get a job, and how to keep a bank account. The classes then go on a field trip to BizTown and the classes simulate a day of ‘real life.’ Students are now referred to as citizens – and each citizen has his or her own job, bank account, and role in society. There are CEOs, town hall meetings, taxes, and a mayor. During my first day when my supervisor, Pete Crozier, was giving me a tour, I was amazed by just how in depth this experience was.

One other fun part about my placement is that I come into this internship with an interesting perspective. I am a Junior Achievement alum (I’m not sure that’s an official term), but I actually went through the program when I was in elementary school. I experienced BizTown (then it was called Exchange City).

I remember being the International Shop owner (BizTown has much cooler businesses now -Raising Cane’s, Donatos, and the Columbus Blue Jackets!) and making crafts that my friends would come and buy. I remember visiting my friends shops and making sure that I had budgeted enough money so that I could patronize each of their businesses. I also remember getting my first ever ticket for walking in the ‘grass’ (a green square in the middle of the room) – Junior Achievement has since gotten rid of that rule.

I remember getting so much out of the experience that my best friend, sister, and I went home and created “Kenny Town” in my house and “Sweet City” at my friend’s house. We each ran our own businesses in separate bedrooms, made our own money, and built our own communities.

Needless to say, I am very excited for my summer ahead. My learning curve is steep, but I’m ready for the challenge! The staff at JA are extremely supportive and even in just a few days, it is clear that their passion for mentoring does not stop with the citizens.

Also I have the master suite of all workspaces. Because BizTown is shut down for the summer, I get to work in one of the town businesses. How appropriate is it that my workspace is none other than the simulated Columbus Foundation!

Best,

Sarah Kenny