Apprentice Spotlight: Sumaya
At CityWorks DC, we know that apprenticeships provide students with the opportunity to gain hands-on skills while shaping their professional futures. Sumaya, a high school senior at Washington Leadership Academy and an apprentice in the Global Education department at Amazon Web Services, embodies the curiosity and ambition of young professionals preparing to enter the workforce. Her journey showcases how hands-on experience, mentorship, and a willingness to step outside her comfort zone have transformed her approach to professional development and career planning.
What inspired you to apply and join the apprenticeship program?
The experience that I would receive definitely inspired me to apply and join the apprenticeship. I was also recommended for this opportunity through my College & Career counselor Ms. E and my former World History teacher Mr. Thomas.
What's one technical skill (e.g., coding, specific software) and one soft skill (e.g., communication, teamwork, problem-solving) you are developing so far?
One technical skill that I have developed so far would be Web Development(essentially coding). For example, I started working on building Wiki pages for my department. A soft skill that I have developed so far would be communication and self-advocacy. I apply these soft skills by seeking clarification, asking for help, and being openly expressive of how I feel.
During your apprenticeship experience thus far, what project, task, or achievement are you most proud of? Consider both personal, academic, or professional achievements.
Throughout my apprenticeship thus far a project and/or achievement that I am most proud of would be my “What is AWS (Amazon Web Services)?” and my “What is Cloud Computing” presentations that I gave to my team. Public Speaking is one skill that I am constantly worried about; but presenting my knowledge of the aforementioned topic to my team was thrilling! I am also proud of my first 1:1 meeting with the director of Global Education Valerie Singer! It was very insightful and I learned a lot about her personally and professionally.
How has this apprenticeship shaped your career goals?
I truly believe that this apprenticeship is helping me shape my career goals by giving me a head start in the corporate workforce; as I aspire to be in the Business career field.
What advice would you give to high school students thinking about applying for a Careerwise apprenticeship?
A piece of advice I would give to high school students thinking about applying for a Careerwise apprenticeship would be to know that you’re capable of success and thriving in a career at a very young age compared to others. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, go do it!
