Nearly 100 Galesburg kids are learning how to make a great first impression.
Corissa Wright is ready for success on Tuesday.
"The sky's the limit," she said. "You can just go for it."
The sixth grader at Lombard Middle School wants to become a lawyer. At age 12, she's off to a wonderful start.
"At first, I thought it was going to be a little scary," she said. "But once you get to know them, they're just like us."
This is the first "Great Galesburg Shake."
Inspired by a program in Atlanta at the Ron Clark Academy, kids connect with adults.
Tuesday's exercise featured a mock business lunch.
Teachers say it can be a life-changing experience.
"We hope that our community sees that our schools are working hard to make our students productive citizens," said Galesburg teacher Jenny Bredemeier.
Jon Reed, 18, is impressing young professionals from Galesburg on Tuesday.
"I learned at a young age not to judge a book by its cover," he told his guests.
The incoming high school senior hopes to become a politician.
For him, these life skills are crucial.
"An experience like this gives kids, no matter where you're from, a chance to talk and see the next level," he said.
Students will be narrowed down to just two during a variety of activities this week.
The final two participants will enjoy a trip to a mystery location on June 2.
"I think this will help me a lot with my skills," Wright said. "This is a good program."
For Corissa Wright, it's all about that winning attitude.
"You don't just want to go up there and talk like a robot," she concluded. "You want to go with the flow."
It's a Great Galesburg Shake for success.