Each month, the FSDB Career Development Department selects a Student Employee of the Month. Students in the after-school campus work program will be chosen based on their excellent work ethic in their respective paid positions on campus after school.
For the month of March, we are recognizing Katarzyna Horvath, a junior in the Deaf Department. She is a D&B Designs Associate. Here is what her supervisor, Liliana Betancourt, had to say about Katarzyna:
"Katie has been an excellent addition to the D&B Designs after-school work program. Katie is very creative and very task-oriented. She has created many wonderful designs to be used during workshops offered to elementary students. Katie takes the lead during the workshops and is always demonstrating an excellent attitude plus the ability to relate to younger children. Children leave the workshop with a great sense of accomplishment and a smiley face!"
Employee Spotlight Interview with Katarzyna
Why did you want to work for D&B Designs?
I am a person who is motivated, task-oriented, and a quick learner. I'm also a creative individual and I love sharing ideas. I have always wanted to be able to help the school be a better place and leave it behind knowing I did my part in improving the campus, whether big or small. I love teaching and helping children and seeing their eyes glow up when they do art.
How do you balance your career and education?
It's not difficult for me because I do things in advance, so I don't get stressed if I do things at the last minute. I always take my time and after work, I make sure to take some time to rest.
What advice do you have for students who want to work on campus?
If you want to work in D&B Designs, you will have to take the class first to gain experience and knowledge before you can apply for the job. There are also other jobs that you will need to take a specific class for and have some basic experience in before you can start working. You need to make sure you qualify.
What do you find most challenging about your job?
It's not as challenging as it was for me in the beginning. Most of the time, learning new equipment or technique can feel overwhelming at first, but as you keep practicing and as time goes on, you start getting comfortable using the equipment and becoming more familiar with certain techniques.
What do you like most about your job?
I like that I have the ability to express my creativity.
What are your plans after FSDB?
I plan on attending Rochester Institute of Technology to major in art, specifically caricature art or anime art.
If you can choose one food to eat for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Hungary food that looks similar to crepes in America called palascinta.
Any random facts you would like to share with us?
I'm a gamer and play a variety of games on PC when I'm home.
If you could be an animal, what would you be?
A cat because I have many cats at home and my nails are always long.
About the After School Campus Work Program
The FSDB After School Campus Work Program provides additional Career Development opportunities to FSDB students (16+) through a structured campus work program delivered outside of the academic day. Students 16 years of age or older will have the opportunity to apply for vacant positions. Students go through a competitive hiring process. They review job postings that include a detailed job description, essential functions, and qualifications.
About FSDB
The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind is a tuition-free state public school in historic St. Augustine, available to eligible pre-K and K-12 students who are deaf/hard of hearing, blind/visually impaired or deafblind. The FSDB experience gives students the edge to do more, be more, and achieve more, fulfilling our vision of preparing them for a lifetime of success. Early intervention and outreach services are also available throughout the state of Florida. Private donations help to support programs that directly benefit students which are not covered by state funds. To inquire about enrollment, contact Parent Services at 904-827-2212 or 904-201-4527 VP. To schedule a campus tour, contact Outreach Services at bit.ly/fsdbtours. For more information, visit fsdbk12.org.