The Girls’ Career Institute (GCI) is a program offered by the New Jersey State Federation of Woman’s Clubs (NJSFWC) each year. It is for girls completing their junior year in a New Jersey high school and is referred to as a “mini college experience.”

The girls selected stay in a dorm at Douglass Residential College, founded by NJSFWC, on the Rutgers University New Brunswick campus during a week in June. They receive their meals in the college cafeteria and attend lectures and workshops by successful woman in varied careers who have volunteered to be a part of this beneficial program. The girls also participate in service projects, music, art, swimming and much more. This experience affords them the opportunity to learn first-hand about many careers as well as how to network with others from around the state.

GCI is underwritten by local NJSFWC clubs, such as Millville Woman’s Club (MWC), throughout the state. The girls must apply for the program at their respective schools. The guidance departments select girls, who are then interviewed by the guidance counselors and representatives from the local Woman’s Club. The girls are selected for GCI based on their interests, community service and participation in school activities.

Donna Pio and Barbara Westog, MWC Education Committee members, met with Millville High School guidance counselors and the GCI candidates. MWC is proud to sponsor Emily Kukal and McKensi Chestnut for GCI this summer.

On May 15, MWC hosted the GCI reception for the Southern Division of NJSFWC, which encompasses Absecon, Cape May, Hammonton, Marmora, Millville, Ocean City and Vineland. Laura Badger, NJSFWC Southern District vice president, welcomed and congratulated all of the girls selected, their parents and representatives from the various Woman’s Clubs.

Ellen Lund, GCI director, provided the girls and their parents with an overview of what they could expect from GCI as well as their responsibilities. Compliments and gratitude go to NJSFWC GCI organizers and all of the professional women who donate their time and expertise.