STUDENTS VISIT WITH SENATOR NEIL BRESLIN
September 9, 2015 was a special day for four Glenmont Job Corps Center Students. Jorge Davila, Sahr Joe, Larisa Bryan, and Queen Azhzane Byrd went to the New York State Building to meet Senator Neil Breslin. BCL/OCT Coordinator Ms. Ann Marie Morin and Peer Leadership Coordinator Ms. Delores Burgess (not pictured in photo) worked closely together to make this experience possible.

Students were greeted by Senator Breslin and were invited into his office where they sat together to share a thoughtful discussion. Senator Breslin was very gracious and made the students feel comfortable and at ease. He asked the students about themselves, where they were from, what they were studying and what their “dream job” was. Ms. Morin asked Senator Breslin if he would describe to the students what his job was and how the law making process worked. Senator Breslin responded that his job was to “make things fairer for people” and he expressed his enthusiasm and work ethic by stating that he “sets out to be the first one in the office every morning.” Jorge Davila then asked the Senator if he could give some examples of how he has been able to make things fairer for people. Senator Breslin offered a few examples, one being legislation to make early detection of Autism more available to parents. He explained how ideas are presented to him, how Senators consider ideas for new laws and the lengthy process of establishing a new law. He also shared his past experiences with the students, such as how he had to work various jobs to make it though college.

When the visit was over, Senator Breslin posed for a photograph with the students, taken by his professional photographer. After taking photographs, Senator Breslin had a one-on-one conversation with Sahr Joe and then the group was taken on a tour of the New York State Building. As Senator Breslin stated the State Building “is like a castle.” Students got to see the Lobby, where lobbyists gather with the Senators to collaborate ideas, and the Senate Floor where new legislation is presented and voted on. They were also educated on the history of the building and its architecture.

The visit was a great success, and the staff members were pleased with the students’ curioisity, excitement, and professionalism they displayed while interacting the members of the New York State Senate. Ms. Morin and Ms. Burgess will be continuing to work closely together to create more exciting opportunities for our students to have off Center.