Robin Sobol Transition Academy (RSTA) student Dasean McGriffin is turning real-world learning into real success. McGriffin was named Teammate of the Month at his job at Market 32 in Catskill, a credit to the skills he developed through Work-Based Learning at RSTA and The ARC Mid-Hudson.
Robin Sobol Transition Academy Student Dasean McGriffin earns Teammate of the Month at Market 32
McGriffin first began volunteering at Market 32 through RSTA and The ARC Mid-Hudson, where he learned workplace skills such as using coupons and counting money.
He later decided that he wanted to get a job to earn money and figure out his plans for after graduating from RSTA in 2027. Through the school’s Work-Based Learning program, McGriffin has gained hands-on experience at several job sites, including Market 32, Mazzone’s Hospitality, The Recovery Room, and The Eddy Senior Living, preparing him to be hired at Market 32 with no job supports.
He was surprised to learn that he was named Teammate of the Month at his job back in the fall.
“It was so surprising to me,” he said. “Every single day, people check in to make sure I’m doing okay, and they told me I’m doing very well, building good relationships, and that they’re happy to see me every day.”
He feels good about the work he is doing and continues to learning every day.
“We learned how to stock shelves correctly, and also how to provide customer support and bag groceries,” McGriffin said. “I feel really confident about it. I actually know what I’m doing, and when no one’s around, I stand by and help others.”
When asked about his favorite part of the job, McGriffin said, “Basically everything. It’s mostly what I did when I volunteered at all these places.”
Through his experiences, McGriffin says he’s learned the importance of communication and helping others.
“I learned how to really chat with people and help them when they need it,” he noted.
McGriffin’s recognition as Teammate of the Month highlights how Work-Based Learning at RSTA is preparing students with the confidence, skills, and independence they need to succeed beyond the classroom.
