“Chill, fun, exciting.”

That’s how 16-year-old Thuan Nguyen described the Career Connected Learning (C2L) Program when asked to sum it up in just three words.

Now in its second year, C2L is helping thousands of Philadelphia youth like Thuan spend their summers building job skills, earning a paycheck, and discovering new possibilities for the future. Through paid summer placements at sites like recreation centers and libraries, C2L offers youth the chance to grow personally and professionally. 

For many youth, the most noticeable growth happens in their confidence. Thuan, who serves as a Teen Leadership Assistant at the Greater Olney Library and leads activities for younger children, said his experience helped him step out of his shell. “I used to be shy, but now I am not as reserved,” he said. “ I’ve learned how to approach people and talk to my peers and supervisors.

While the jobs vary across the city, they all offer a common foundation: supportive environments, skill-building, and caring adult mentors who want to see young people succeed.

“It gives them an introduction to the real world of work and having a job, in an easy and supportive environment,” said Alyson Bauer, Library Coordinator with the Library’s youth services team. “They get a steady paycheck, flexible hours, and free training, but more importantly, they gain confidence, professional skills, and mentorship. It really gives them a solid foundation for the work they’ll be doing in the future.”

And for many teens, that foundation starts with discovering what they’re capable of. The support they receive helps them take ownership of their roles, build meaningful relationships, and imagine futures they have not considered before.

For Ashe Krumrine,18, the experience was more than checking in for a summer job; it was about stepping into a space that felt like their future. As a Teen Leadership Assistant at the Field Teen Center at Parkway Central Library, they help run teen programs and prep for the library’s Summer of Wonder program. Ashe hopes to become a librarian one day, and this summer gave them a chance to start building the skills and relationships that could make that possible.

“I’ve learned how to talk to coworkers, especially librarians,” Krumrine said. “It’s helped me feel more confident networking and making connections,” And for anyone unsure about joining, their advice is simple: “Do it. It’s fun and prepares you for any job.”

Ashe’s experience is just one example of how C2L helps young people connect their interests to real-world opportunities. Whether youth come into the program with a clear goal or just a willingness to try something new, they leave with greater clarity, confidence, and a growing sense of who they are and who they might become.

From building confidence to building connections, C2L is helping Philly teens grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

To learn more about the C2L program and how to get involved, visit phila.gov/C2L.