On the Job: Arturo Ray

Flint Southwestern Classical Academy Alum Arturo Ray believes in learning from those around him. And so far, it has worked out in his favor.

“I work with people older than me who have knowledge I can learn from,” says Ray. “By listening to them, I have been able to buy my first home, graduate from college and build my credit score.”

Now working at Magna Electronics, Ray says he learned to take in lessons from others through his time in TeenQuest and Summer Youth Initiative.

“There was a lot of wisdom there,” says Ray. “They taught me how to work, avoid following the crowd and be my own man. I still live by those lessons today.”

Below, learn more about this Mott Community College graduate’s journey and future plans.

What is a typical day like at your job?

I work as a team lead and operator at Magna Electronics, I assemble back-up cameras for Ford and GM.

What are your plans for the future?

I graduated from Mott Community College with a degree in applied science concentrated on HVAC. One day, I’d like to work at a heating and cooling company.

What is a memorable moment you have from SYI?

I worked for the Mr. Rogers Garden Program at the Flint Farmers’ Market.  during my senior year of high school. After the summer, I ended up getting another job with a different vendor at the market. That connection was helpful to me, but my favorite part of working there was helping older people with their groceries. It made me feel like I was doing good.

What advice would you offer to current TeenQuest students?

Pay attention. When I went to college, I didn’t pay attention when scheduling classes and that is why it took me so long. But, also, don’t get discouraged by mistakes. It’s up to you to change the position you’re in.

What has been your proudest moment since TeenQuest?

My grandmother watching me graduate from college. She was my main motivation. She never had the chance to go to college. I remember when I was younger and didn’t want to go to school, she would wake me up and make me go. So, her being there to see me graduate – that was the best feeling in the world to me.

TeenQuest and Summer Youth Initiative are made possible through the generous support of the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation.

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