For many students in New Brunswick, finding a support system to integrate into after high school can be difficult. To that end, NBEF’s College and Young Professional Network (C&YPN) fills a much-needed gap. Events like “Prep for Success” introduce students to the NBEF Network and provide connectivity for those already part of the Network. With panel events tailored to high school juniors and seniors, college students, as well as young professionals, this annual initiative helps to support students as they navigate college and the workforce. Alongside the panel events, motivational speaker, Dr. John Gaines, gave a Keynote address about the power of believing in your abilities.

Dr. John Gaines kicked off the event with his inspiring speech encouraging students to push through life’s obstacles and become the best versions of themselves as they pursue higher education and career paths. His message of "starting every day with a great thought" created such a positive atmosphere that carried over into the rest of the night. A compelling and powerful speaker, the address was a wonderful introduction to the workshops led by New Brunswick alumni and NBEF Network participants. The “GEARing UP for College: Tips for Success” panel was moderated by our very own Jian Bland, New Brunswick Tomorrow's Director of Youth Services. The panel, directed at juniors applying to college, provided the opportunity for students to gain insight directly from their peers’ experiences. Students engaged fully in learning about how to adapt to college both academically and socially especially throughout the pandemic.

The night included the panel event, “Building Your Confidence, Profile, And Network to Land a Career”, led by young professionals and graduate students sharing the lessons they’ve learned throughout their career journeys. While the “Applying for Scholarships & Joining NBEF’s Network” workshop was facilitated by Jessica Varela, MBA – NBEF Project Manager and former scholarship recipient of the organization, who provided participants with resources and services that will assist them with their college and career pursuits.

One of the most exciting parts of the evening entailed the giving away of raffle prizes and NBEF scholarships! For many students, the gap between financial aid and the actual cost of attending college can be cost-prohibitive. To that end, NBEF looks to close that gap by offering scholarships to students as young as juniors in high school through students in graduate school. NBT remains both a proud and committed partner and sponsor of NBEF. We are thrilled by the impact we know events like this have on our students.

We want to thank NBEF and all those involved with its amazing “Prep for Success” Virtual Platform event, including speakers, panelists, moderators, and especially Emmanuel Ford and the NBEF leadership team for their time and generosity in the lives of New Brunswick youth and young adults.