Annual career day at Caroline G. Atkinson

Caroline G. Atkinson’s Intermediate School held its annual career day, where sixth-grade students had the opportunity to explore various professions and gain insights into future career paths. The school’s gymnasium was filled with a diverse group of professionals, including engineers, accountants, nurses, and firefighters, who generously volunteered their time to engage with the students.

Equipped with clipboards, pens, and paper, the eager students eagerly made their way to different stations to converse with the professionals hailing from various parts of Long Island. The experts not only discussed their respective careers but also shed light on the educational backgrounds and qualifications required for each profession. The event aimed to provide students with a broader understanding of the job market and inspire them to consider potential career choices as they grow older.

Principal Daniel Reardon emphasized the significance of inviting professionals into the school.

“Bringing professionals into the school to talk about their careers gives our students an idea of the variety of jobs available now and helps give them an idea of what they might like to pursue when they are older” Reardon said.

With approximately 25 different professions represented, the students were armed with a set of pre-prepared questions to initiate discussions with the experts. However, they were also encouraged to pose their own inquiries. Some of the thought-provoking questions included: “What aspects of your job do you find most fulfilling?” “What path did you take to earn your engineering degree?” and “Which subjects in school proved most beneficial in your career?”

Among the students, sixth-grader Ashley Morales had a particularly enriching encounter with financial adviser Vereline McClaney.

“I like career day, but right now I am learning how saving my money is important and can help me pay for college,” Morales said.

The hosting of career day at Caroline G. Atkinson School serves a twofold purpose: introducing sixth-grade students to unfamiliar career paths and further exploring the professions that capture their interest. By providing this immersive experience, the school aims to broaden students’ horizons and nurture their passion for various fields, fostering a sense of direction and purpose in their educational journey.