As more and more young Memphians are mapping out what moves to make to close in on their career goals, the NexGen Internship Program acts a catalyst during their transition from pupils to professionals.
Meet NexGen Jacolby Rogers, Choose901 Alumni, graduate of Soulsville Charter School, 2022 Soulsville Student Body President—and current student at the ASU Mid South.
I am Jacolby Rogers. I was born and raised in the great city of Memphis TN. I am an avid Beyonce fan. (I will be seeing her in concert twice this year). I am very active in my church. Recently, I planned and hosted the first youth conference, Unleashed. Recently, I started my own decoration business, J. King Collectionz, where I specialize in balloon arches, table-scapes, and backdrops.
We Sat down with NexGen Jacolby Rogers to talk shop about the Nexgen Experience.
It sounds like you have a big business focus at ASU. What's your "why"?
After graduation, I want to to pursue a career in HR management. I am very interested in working with people and helping develop others. In the future, I would like to create my own business focused on community engagement.
I’m very passionate making a positive impact on my community and working towards creating opportunities where others can lead to significant improvements in the lives of many people.
Who inspires you to keep working towards your passions?
Beyonce inspires me—her strong work ethic and commitment to perfection are evident in her performances and dedication to her projects. Her discipline and determination to continually improve and evolve serve as a model for those striving to achieve their goals.
Who inspires you to keep working towards your passions?
Beyonce inspires me—her strong work ethic and commitment to perfection are evident in her performances and dedication to her projects. Her discipline and determination to continually improve and evolve serve as a model for those striving to achieve their goals.
Your nexgen fellowship is wrapping up, so let's rewind to the beginning—Why did you choose to pursue the NexGen fellowship? What did you get out of the experience?
I choose the NexGen fellowship because because I knew it going to be something that introduced me to many different people and be a resume builder and connect me with some amazing people in the city of Memphis.
Out of this internship, I gained great experience in my field. Specifically growing my organizational and planning skills through the projects assigned. As well as make amazing connections.
What have you been doing in your Nexgen Fellowship?
I’m interning with City Leadership in the Strategic Partnerships Department where I’m working on making a Pro-tips workbook. This workbook outlines the steps to find a job, update your resume, and prepare for the interview. I also created an internship calendar that will highlight the internships happening throughout the year that will be used to inform Choose901 Alumni of upcoming opportunities. I also tapped into some HR things by making sure NexGen has lunch and helping some of our alumni find jobs.
What have you been doing in your Nexgen Fellowship?
I’m interning with City Leadership in the Strategic Partnerships Department where I’m working on making a Pro-tips workbook. This workbook outlines the steps to find a job, update your resume, and prepare for the interview. I also created an internship calendar that will highlight the internships happening throughout the year that will be used to inform Choose901 Alumni of upcoming opportunities. I also tapped into some HR things by making sure NexGen has lunch and helping some of our alumni find jobs.
Memphis advances when we work together to pour into rising young talent, like NexGen Jacolby Rogers, who are fearlessly forging their own path.
We are always looking for new opportunities for our next round of NexGen interns! Interested in learning more about the program? Want to play an active role in building a better Memphis?
