STAGES Spotlight

My name is Mike Petruzzi. I am 22 years old. I am exiting STAGES this month.

I visited many college classes and had many job training experiences. I got a payed job at Andros Cafeteria, now named Bulls Den.

I learned how to take the city bus in Tampa.  I took the bus in Ohio when I had a job at a High School for pay. I also learned how to sell items at the Bull Market and make my own money. That’s when I knew, in 2005 I would start my own business. So, on May 16, 2005 I got picked from METTA to start my business in multi-media. I learned how to write a business plan.

I plan to work on my business and advertise to customers around the county when I leave STAGES.

I hope to get a job in the Special Education Department helping with the USF website.

To the new students I think you will love Gigi Gonzalez and Ms. Dora. They have been like family to me for two years. My advise is don’t be a drop out.

Petruzzi Media was established by Mike Petruzzi, a student from the STAGES Program at the University Of South Florida. Mike's ambition finally paid off when he started Petruzzi Media, a Multi Media business, in April 2005.

Check out my website www.PetruzziMedia.com

Mike

From the parents: “Mike's opportunity to be a part of STAGES has been the most positive and rewarding experience a young person can have.  I've seen him gain more confidence, excel in computers, and of course, start his own multi-media business, which was a dream of his.  Learning to ride the public transportation system has also given him confidence.  If he needs to get somewhere, he knows how to map out his route and get there.   He takes charge, when necessary.  Without Miss Gigi and STAGES none of these things would be possible.” 

Updated May 2006