Ariel Fanning
Ariel Fanning
"People could look at Student Law Academy as just a high school program, but it's a program that's going to potentially elevate your career, your resume, your LinkedIn, and cultivate you as a person."Ariel Fanning, UMKC Student & Hill's Pet Nutrition Intern
Early Exposure and Career Exploration via Student Law Academy
Ariel Fanning's introduction to PREP-KC's Student Law Academy (SLA) opened her eyes to career possibilities beyond her initial expectations.
"I didn't really realize how vast [law] really is. I was grateful for the opportunity to hear from different legal professionals...Learning about what they had done in their careers and how that can apply, even as young as somebody in high school, was really enriching for me."
Ariel Fanning (center, back row) and the other members of the Student Law Academy, Summer 2023.
Launching a Career at Hill's Pet Nutrition
Today, Ariel excels as a Human Resources Intern at Hill's Pet Nutrition, thanks to connections through PREP-KC and UMKC's Bloch Launchpad Program. "I was attending a cohort meeting...I reached out, and she connected me with my current manager at Hill's Pet Nutrition."
Ariel now works on important HR projects, including employee resource groups and strategic recruitment efforts. "It's been really fulfilling," she adds.
Hill's Pet Nutrition, where Ariel currently works as Human Resources Intern.
Strategic Networking Through LinkedIn
"LinkedIn is a big part of my daily routine," she explains. "SLA helped me sign up for LinkedIn, and helps me expand my network connections."
She stresses that having a strong LinkedIn profile is essential for career growth, advising, "Most employers are going to take the time to look at your LinkedIn…you're marketing yourself."
Building Essential Skills
"SLA taught me how to be more professional in my career role," she shares. "I started applying that more in high school, and now I apply it in my role as an actual career professional."
Ariel credits SLA with teaching her to approach challenges strategically and communicate effectively—critical skills that have served her well in both college and professional settings.
Inspired by Ariel's Story?
Discover how PREP-KC programs can transform your future, just like they did for Ariel.