Herkimer middle school students chatted with a professional athlete, a respiratory therapist, a lawyer, a fitness instructor and more professionals during Career Day in December.
Twelve professionals from a variety of fields spoke with students throughout the morning and answered questions about their work. Students were able to choose which sessions they wanted to attend, and traveled from room to room to participate in the short presentations.
According to guidance counselor Suzanne O’Brien, the event was student-driven.
“Last year, we did a Wellness Fair, but the feedback we got from students was that they were interested in a Career Fair this year,” O’Brien explained.
The Career Fair included representatives from the military, nursing, law enforcement, fitness, environmental conservation, agriculture, technology and counseling.
“We picked careers for all levels of education so that students can see what’s possible for them,” O’Brien explained, adding, “We have students who know they want to work when they are done with school; a four-year degree may not be the path for them.”
One highlight of the presentation was a visit from Jess Jecko, goalkeeper for the Team USA field hockey team and sister of physical education teacher Vanessa Jecko. Among the presenters were also parents of some of the students.
“It’s good for them to see people from the area,” Mrs. O’Brien said.