When Danielle James started the Alaska Job Corps program last January, she had hoped to become employable.  She has done far more than that in less than one year. 

 Dani James, from Kenai, has earned and excelled in her academic and vocational training.  She has held leadership positions including Student Governement Association.   As an Alaska Job Corps office administration student, she was placed in Senator Begich’s office as a work-base training site.  Since Dani is both gregarious and friendly, a more perfect spot couldn’t be found. 

 Dani has been on the Job Corps work base training site since October 15.  Every single day in Senator Begich’s office is exciting because she meets new people, practices good business skills, makes connections and helps the office staff with a variety of constituency problems. 

 She has been mentored daily by Senator Begich’s legislative assistant, Mary Kwalheim.  “She has been the best instructor.  I have learned so much from her,” says James.  Kwalheim is on the Alaska Job Corps Community Relations Council along with other principals from business and community.  “Dani has done a great job.  She is a professional and so enthusiastic and helpful,” says Kwalheim.

 One day, last month, Dani was asked to accompany the Senator to meetings, to make contacts and assist with some backup photography. “It was the coolest day,” she said.  “Senator Mark listens to everyone.  And he tries to help them with whatever problem they may have.”

 Here was the schedule from her day with the Senator:

• 9-9:40 a.m: Tour of Lowe’s in South Anchorage where the Senator asked about products and staff.
• 10-11 a.m: At the Loussac Library to open up the Seward Kenai Highway Safety Council.
• 11-11:15: KFAR in Fairbanks to talk to Steve the DJ about various things of interest.
• 11:20-12 p.m: Alaska Municipal League and answered questions from mayors from all over Alaska.
• 1:30-2:45 p.m: Senior Town Hall meeting at a local Anchorage senior center; speech about social security and answered questions.
• 3-4pm:  Alliance of Alaska meeting where Senator sat down with state members and discussed economics of the state.