Biography

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With extensive experience in education, decades of community service, and years in sales and
customer service, Aarika has been a pivotal force behind the scenes, contributing to the
foundational success of Career Jam. She spent twelve years as a classroom teacher, honing
her skills in parent relations, curriculum planning, and development, while enriching the lives of
countless students with her dedication and expertise.

Now, as the owner and Chief Community Engagement Officer of Career Jam, Aarika brings her
extensive background and passion for youth and community to the forefront. Working to bridge
the gap between education and business through this powerful workforce solution, Aarika
maintains an unwavering adherence to Career Jam’s foundational principles and core values,
rallying the community together toward creating a lasting impact.

Aarika serves as the Executive Director of The Student First Project, Inc., a nonprofit founded to
transform students’ lives by prioritizing their needs, aspirations, and potential. She spearheads
efforts to fund initiatives that align with the nonprofit’s mission to empower students to reach
their full potential and thrive in all aspects of their lives. The Student First Project supports and
enhances Career Jam’s existing programs and promotes the creation of career exploration
tools, aiding in the streamlining of career pathway development.

Carrying on the vision and legacy of her late husband and founder of Career Jam, Ryan Van
Amburgh, Aarika's dedication ensures that our mission to offer a unique and immersive
experience, one that inspires students, equips educators, supports employers, and empowers
communities, remains at the heart of everything we do.