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This year, four Lancaster Mennonite 11th grade students stepped beyond the classroom and into the professional world through the Lancaster Chamber’s Discovering Paths program—an immersive experience designed to help students explore career interests, build connections, and gain real-world insight into their futures.
Meeting twice a month at locations across Lancaster County—including Spooky Nook, Millersville University, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, the Lancaster City Court House, and local businesses—students engaged in hands-on activities, networking opportunities, and job shadowing experiences that brought potential career paths to life.
Exploring Interests, Building Confidence
For Moriah Kraenbring, the program offered meaningful opportunities to explore her passion for working with children. Through job shadowing experiences with both a kindergarten teacher at Kraybill Mennonite School and a fourth-grade teacher in a public school, Moriah gained valuable perspective on the field of education.
“I’ve always been interested in becoming a teacher, especially in kindergarten or first grade,” Moriah shared. “This program has been a great experience to explore my passions and see all the different opportunities out there.”
Moriah also benefited from peer tutoring opportunities at Lancaster Mennonite and is continuing to explore additional interests, including real estate, as she considers her future.
Her mentor, Shae McGowan, Account Manager at Higher Information Group, reflected on the experience:
“Working with Moriah has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a privilege to walk alongside a student as they explore their interests and begin to shape their future. Programs like this give students the opportunity to ask questions, gain real-world insight, and build confidence in their direction.”
Making Connections and Pursuing Passions
Leah Weit entered the program eager to build connections—and quickly did just that. Paired with mentor Monica Trego, Marketing Director at Tanger Outlets Lancaster, Leah explored both marketing and healthcare career paths.
“I’ve really enjoyed the networking and meeting new people,” Leah said. “It’s helped me build connections and think more about what I might want to do in the future.”
Leah, a competitive dancer trained in ballet, lyrical, and contemporary styles, is also exploring a potential career in respiratory therapy—a field that holds personal significance. She recently participated in job shadowing experiences and plans to continue learning more through hands-on opportunities.
Monica Trego shared: “It has been an absolute pleasure serving as Leah’s mentor. Her confidence and curiosity make her a joy to engage with. She has a clear passion for learning and a strong interest in respiratory therapy, which speaks to her dedication and sense of purpose.”
Discovering Purpose Through Experience
For Trinity Pantoja, the Discovering Paths program provided clarity and direction. With an interest in public safety and law enforcement, she participated in experiences such as the Lancaster County Public Safety Summit and a courthouse shadowing day.
“This program has helped me learn more about what I want to do and what steps I need to take,” Trinity shared. “It’s given me a better understanding of careers in public safety and law enforcement, and how to prepare for them.”
Through guidance from her mentor, Joy Tien, Ed.D., Trinity explored a range of options before confirming her interest in public safety.
Dr. Tien reflected on Trinity’s journey: “Mentoring Trinity has been a deeply rewarding experience, especially witnessing her ‘aha’ moments when her interests aligned with potential career paths. Watching her grow into a more confident and independent individual has been incredibly gratifying.”
Expanding Horizons and Exploring Opportunities
Elilta Kndshih embraced the wide range of opportunities offered through the program, participating in career panels, college visits, and interactive experiences such as a community health fair.
“I’ve really appreciated being able to explore different career options and connect with people in the community,” Elilta said. “It’s helped me think more about what I might want to do in the future.”
Through job shadowing experiences at both a hospital and the courthouse, Elilta gained firsthand exposure to multiple career fields.
Her mentor, Amanda Burton, VP and Program Manager at Fulton Bank, emphasized the value of the program: “Discovering Paths offers a unique opportunity for students to explore their interests, build confidence, and discover how their strengths can open doors to the right career fit. Walking alongside students in this process is both rewarding and inspiring.”
A Community Effort to Shape the Future
The Discovering Paths program is made possible through strong partnerships between schools, local businesses, and the Lancaster Chamber. Program coordinator Jocelyn Engle has been involved for more than a decade, helping guide students and mentors through the experience. In her day job, 2000 alumna, Jocelyn, is the Publisher of Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc., and she volunteers her time to support this unique mentorship program for studnets in our community.
“It’s inspiring to watch students grow from being a bit shy or unsure into confident young adults,” Engle shared. “They gain exposure to careers right here in Lancaster and begin to see what’s possible for their future.”
For Lancaster Mennonite students, the program is more than career exploration—it’s an opportunity to grow in confidence, discover God-given gifts, and take meaningful steps toward the future. We’re so thankful for the mentors and Lancaster community that are surrounding and supporting students explore their career interests and have positive role models to learn from to help them thrive in the future!
