Inside JA BizTown

Image caption: I love seeing students in action! Helping them in their storefronts remind me why I enjoy every day as a Sim Specialist.

It’s incredibly rewarding to walk into a job each day knowing you’re going to make a small difference. That’s exactly how I feel every time I step into Junior Achievement BizTown.

Before the students even arrive, the space is quiet, and the faint smell of popcorn from the day before still lingers in the air. My day starts with preparation: checking that each station is ready, materials are set out, tablets are charged, and everything is in place for students to succeed. But more importantly, it’s about setting the tone. This isn’t just an ordinary field trip; it’s a chance for students to see what they’re capable of.

Each student comes to BizTown with their own story. Some are learning English, some learn differently, and some are overcoming personal challenges. No matter where they start, we focus on making sure every student feels supported, valued, and capable of success.

Once the students arrive, the energy shifts instantly. You can feel the excitement (and sometimes the nerves) as they step into their “careers” for the day. Throughout the experience, I guide, support, and sometimes gently redirect them as they learn to navigate teamwork, decision-making, and responsibility.

The best moments are the ones you can’t plan for; when a student finds their confidence during a meeting, discovers a hidden strength, or learns that mistakes are simply part of learning and growing. Not every project turns out perfectly, but those moments often become the most valuable lessons.

No two days are the same, but every day ends in a similar way: students walk out a little more confident than when they walked in. And for me, that’s the most rewarding part of all.

Before we leave, we always take time to debrief while we reset the space. We share small stories from the day, the challenges, the wins, and the unexpected moments that reminded us why we do this work.

How many people can say they leave work happy, knowing they planted a seed in a student that could grow into something life-changing?

That’s what makes this work so meaningful.