In his presentation, Steve engaged students as he had them envision a personal dream. He kept them engaged by getting them to realize the possibility of their dreams coming true. He tells stories of wealthy individuals, including him, who have experienced great success by committing themselves to the pursuit of their dreams through perseverance and hard work. He also presented a sampling of job descriptions and asked opinions on which they think would make the larger salary. The answers typically surprised and delighted the impressionable youngsters. Additionally, Mazda did some calculations with the students. He calculated the pay of a minimum wage part-time job and showed how the money can accumulate into a million dollars over time if invested and not spent frivolously. For students, this was real life, not some boring lesson out of a textbook. What’s even more real to the students is that Steve Mazda’s business career started at a building on Aramingo and Venango Sts., and intersection near Penn Treaty. With that seed planted, the students became excited with the prospect of success in business and were anxious to write thank you letters after Mazda’s visit.

Here are a few of the children’s responses to the visit, submitted to The Spirit:

On Friday April 25, 2008, it made me feel happy and excited to finally meet Mr. Mazda because we have been talking about him for a long time. I felt this way because he told me that I can be whatever I want as long as I stick with it and practice a lot to accomplish my goals. My goal is to become a pro-basketball player when I Graduate college. In the future I hope me and Mr. Mazda reach our goals and be successful.

Tyler

On Friday, Mr. Mazda came and visited my 6th grade class. If made me feel excited and happy. I felt this way because He made me realize that money can be spent but also saved. In the future I hope to become as rich as Mr. Mazda and start my own company someday.

Jaynell

On Friday April 25, 2008 Mr. Mazda attended Penn Treaty Middle School. He made me feel like I was going to be somebody when I get older. I felt like he was speaking from experience. In the future I hope to become a successful person in the NBA. I want to become rich and take care of my family.

Craig