GLOSTER &045;&045; Through a local Boy Scouts of America Explorer post, some Gloster teens are getting hands-on experience in the workplace.

The opportunities are provided through Learning for Life, a nationwide network that provides Explorers ages 14 to 20 with workplace experience and scholarship opportunities.

&uot;This is the first year that we’ve participated in this program. It’s good because it allows the kids to learn skills and make connections in the workplace,&uot; post adviser and Gloster policeman Jessie Miles said.

Explorer Post 552, the Gloster Junior Police, was chartered through BSA in 2001 primarily as a law enforcement post. But through Learning for Life, the post’s 12 Explorers also have a chance to sample other careers by volunteering on weekends.

Explorer Jeremy Smith spent Saturday morning helping Dr. Robert Kimmel at the McComb Animal Hospital.

It was Smith’s second weekend to volunteer at the clinic as part of the Learning for Life program.

A sophomore at Amite County High School, Jeremy owns a pet iguana and hopes to one day enter veterinary school.

&uot;I want to work with the doctor as long as possible,&uot; Jeremy said.

Dr. Kimmel said students have often worked at his clinic on a part-time or volunteer basis.

&uot;I know of two who have gone on to become veterinarians,&uot; Kimmel said.

Jeremy’s parents, George and Brander Smith of Gloster, are glad to see their son is taking advantage of the Explorer program.

&uot;The last time he worked there, he came out grinning, so he likes it. And he could be involved in lots worse things that kids get into,&uot; Brander Smith said.

Miles said five Explorers at the post have thus far been placed in volunteer jobs ranging from resturants and department stores to auto body shops.