Graduate Spotlight: Michael O'Connell of Swenson Arts and Technology High School

Starting work at 14 years old, landing multiple jobs throughout high school, speaks to the kind of work ethic that Michael O'Connell of Swenson Arts and Technology High School has.

O'Connell was raised in Northeast Philadelphia alongside his older sister. 

He recalled times from his childhood spent outside.

“I always loved to go on adventures out in the woods,” O'Connell said. “I spent the majority of my free time out with my friends, Alex, Connor, and Manny."

O'Connell's passion for adventure never faded.

“I like to drive around, explore, and hike,” he said when asked what he does to fill his free time. 

When it came to choosing which high school to attend, it was an easy decision for O'Connell. Swenson provided him with unique learning opportunities that were not commonly available in the other schools. 

During O’Connell’s time at Swenson, he had the opportunity to take an apprenticeship with the Department of Public Property in Philadelphia. 

“It allowed me to experience the electrical trade in the field while getting paid for it once a week during the school year,” he said. “It allowed me to practice what I've learned.”

“Post-graduation, I plan to obtain my electrical license and eventually start my own business doing electrical work,” O'Connell said. “Swenson has prepared me for success post graduation by providing me a unique skillset and experience needed to succeed in my chosen career field.”

O'Connell's favorite memory from Swenson was not one from inside the classroom, it was “a five-day expedition along the Appellation trail where students were able to learn several skills.” The Outward Bound program is an experiential learning approach that is provided by the Philadelphia Outward Bound School. 

Outward Bound School (KYW Newsradio)

 

“The unfamiliar settings where Outward Bound expeditions occur challenge our students mentally and physically,” as stated on the Philadelphia Outward Bound School website. “Amidst the demands of the expedition, students learn to dig deep and to push themselves, where they often find there is more in them than they know.”

When asked if any staff members at Swenson had a particular impact on O'Connell's journey, he responded with, “Mr. Jesberger.” 

“Mr. J has taught me all I know about the electrical industry and prepared me for working in the outside world,” he said of James Jesberger, one of Swenson's instructors in the electrical program. 

While O’Connell might praise Jesberger for his dedication to teaching, Jesberger praises O’Connell for his commitment to learning. 

“Mike O'Connell is truly a standout student,” said Jesberger. “I met Mike in my electrical class when he was in tenth grade.”

Jesberger explained the apprenticeship program that O’Connell was a part of with the Department of Public Property.

“I knew with Mike's mature attitude, enthusiasm, and work ethic, he was going to get the position,” he said.

When asked if he had any words of advice for O’Connell post-graduation, Jesberger, smiled. 

“Continue being [your] caring, enthusiastic, hardworking self, and I know [you] will be a success in [your] professional life,” he said.

O'Connell plans to do just that.