Inside AIM: How the Grad Enrichment Series is Empowering Career Growth Through Real Stories

From Grad Goals to Real-World Roles: How AIM’s Grad Enrichment Series Is Helping Careers Take Flight

Every career path has its own plot twists, learning curves, and “aha” moments. At AIM, we believe those stories matter—not just because they shape who our team is, but because they’re a window into what makes AIM such a unique and inspiring place to grow. That’s why we created the Grad Enrichment Series (GES): a behind-the-scenes look at real AIMer journeys, told straight from the source.

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What’s the Grad Enrichment Series All About?

Think of GES as part podcast, part mentoring moment, and part storytelling magic. Designed specifically for our graduate assistants, this series gives them an authentic peek into what a career at AIM looks and feels like—from the challenges to the big wins, and everything in between. Each episode features a recorded interview with an AIM employee, where they dive into their motivations, career path, and personal growth. It’s a space where vulnerability meets professional insight, and where experience becomes guidance for the next generation.

Lights, Camera, Connection

The GES interviews are intentionally casual and conversation-driven—think of it like a coffee chat with a purpose. Sessions typically run about 30 minutes and are recorded in-person at the office (though Zoom steps in when needed). The final recordings live in AIM’s Media Library, serving as both inspiration and a professional resource. Behind the scenes, a dynamic team of graduate assistants keeps things running smoothly. Julia Ogden, Alina O’Neill, Natalie Laia, and Lauren Gonzales rotate through key roles during each session: interviewer, timekeeper, audio tech, and notetaker. This hands-on format not only keeps the energy high, but also gives each of them a chance to sharpen skills they’ll carry far beyond AIM.

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What We’re Learning—About Others and Ourselves

For the team leading the series, the experience has been unexpectedly powerful. “We were so close to everyone’s office but only knew surface-level stuff about them,” said Alina O’Neill. “It’s been so interesting to really connect with the people we pass in the hallway—or only see out in the field!”

Lauren Gonzales echoed the impact. “When I first joined AIM, I felt super overwhelmed. This project has been grounding and rewarding—it’s helped me build connections and feel part of something.”

Whether it’s Julia Ogden drawing on her background in IT project management, or Natalie Laia weaving in her passion for School Psychology, each member brings a different lens to the series. What they’ve discovered together is that most AIMers share a common heartbeat: a genuine love for working with kids and families, and a deep desire to make a difference.

“There’s a strong theme of service and connection,” Julia shared. “People are drawn to AIM because they want to be part of something bigger than themselves.”

The Power of Reflection

One unexpected benefit? The interviews give staff something they rarely get in their fast-paced roles: the chance to slow down and reflect.

“These are people who are constantly pouring into others,” Natalie explained. “They don’t always get the chance to pause and reconnect with why they started this journey. This series gives them that space—and it’s really powerful.”

Many describe the experience as therapeutic—like a career check-in with heart. Or, as Julia puts it: “There’s something cathartic about telling your story. It’s like group therapy, but with a purpose.”

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More Than Just Interviews

GES is more than just a video series—it’s becoming part of AIM’s culture. It’s helping us define who we are, how we work, and what we believe in. Through these real, unfiltered conversations, we’re capturing the essence of AIM: a place where people lead with compassion, grow through challenge, and believe deeply in the power of service. We’re thrilled to keep sharing these stories in the months to come—because the people of AIM aren’t just part of the mission. They are the mission.

Showcasing the Heart and Soul Behind AIM

Check out our latest interview with Rachel Duff, where she shares her inspiring journey, what keeps her motivated, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. Trust us—you won’t want to miss it!

Thank you Rachel!