When I stepped into the role of Operations Associate at Peer Power Foundation, I knew I was in for a challenge. Little did I know that managing the logistics for our annual Spring Break ACT Prep Boot Camp would be an adventure like no other!
Imagine this: a week-long intensive program at the University of Memphis, 250 high school students, and more moving parts than a complex machine. As someone new to the role, I had to learn fast. Coordinating with the university, ensuring the safety of minors amidst college life, collaborating with schools, managing transportation, and leading a team of 40+ staff – it was no small feat.
But here’s what I discovered – the key to success lies in working smarter, not harder. Our Data Associate, Kathryn, is a whiz with database systems and automations. She created a Google Sheet that auto-updates with student registration and consent form status, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! No more drowning in spreadsheets for this team.
I’ve also learned the importance of playing to people’s strengths when dividing tasks. My colleague Sylvia, for example, is a master at ensuring everything gets done. Give her a checklist and consider it handled.
Of course, even the best-laid plans can go awry. Last-minute student registrations, missing consent forms, and supply shortages are all part of the game. That’s where thinking on your feet and maintaining a sense of humor become invaluable skills. Because let’s face it, sometimes you just have to laugh at the chaos!
At the end of the day, seeing our students succeed makes all the hard work worthwhile. Last year, participants saw an average 3-point increase in their ACT scores from start to finish. And with each bootcamp, our team becomes more organized and confident. We’re building a well-oiled machine, one challenge at a time.
So, to all the program managers out there tackling big projects, remember: embrace the chaos, trust your team, and don’t be afraid to innovate. You’ve got this! And if all else fails, just remember – a little humor goes a long way in keeping everyone motivated and engaged.
Kayla Johnson, Operations Associate