By Dwayne Coleman
Jaykease RosalesThe Birmingham Promise program is an initiative to provide local students with valuable work experience and educational pathways with area employers and academic institutions.
The power of this partnership is illustrated through the experience of Jaykease Rosales, a Birmingham City Schools senior and recent intern with UAB’s HR Talent Acquisition team.
“Jaykease has been a remarkable asset to our team,” said UAB HR Talent Acquisition manager Oscar Hunter. “His dedication, professionalism and eagerness to take on new challenges have been invaluable. The partnership with Birmingham Promise aligns perfectly with our mission to identify, recruit and retain top talent for UAB and Birmingham.”
Working with a Birmingham Promise intern
UAB departments and units interested in working with a Birmingham Promise intern should contact Oscar Hunter in Talent Acquisition and Temporary Services at oscarh@uab.edu or (205) 975-8359.
From candidate screening and research on industry trends to supporting recruitment events, Rosales’ role involved various tasks. His keen eye for detail and genuine passion for connecting with people stood out, Hunter says. Rosales consistently demonstrated strong interpersonal skills, making him a trusted and respected team member.
The Birmingham Promise partnership is a prime example of how UAB implements its strategic objectives, providing pathways for students to achieve economic security and mobility. UAB was the first academic partner to support the Birmingham Promise scholarship in providing a one-to-one tuition scholarship match to students admitted to UAB as first-time, full-time freshmen in the academic year following high school graduation from a Birmingham City School. Another aspect of Birmingham Promise is its internship program, which allows Birmingham City Schools seniors to earn $15 an hour while getting job experience and building professional networks.
By connecting Birmingham City Schools students with workforce experience as well as post-secondary opportunities, the program aims to enhance students’ economic mobility. “Programs like Birmingham Promise are vital in shaping the future of our communities,” Hunter said. “They help bridge the gap between education and employment, providing students with the skills and experiences necessary to thrive in their careers.”
As Rosales concludes his internship, UAB acknowledges his significant contributions and the positive impact of the Birmingham Promise Program. The experience has benefited Rosales and reinforced UAB’s mission to support and prepare students for future success.
“Watching Jaykease grow and develop professionally has been a pleasure,” Hunter said. “We have no doubt that he has a bright future ahead of him.”
The partnership between UAB HR Talent Acquisition and the Birmingham Promise exemplifies a shared commitment to fostering talent and creating opportunities for the next generation. As UAB continues to Forge Ahead through its strategic plan, such collaborations will remain integral to the university’s vision of making a lasting, positive impact on the local and global community.
Learn more about Birmingham Promise scholarship requirements and eligibility at UAB.
