Every year, HBR Middle School hosts Career Day, a special event where students have the opportunity to explore different professions and interact with professionals from various industries. As someone who has had the privilege of being a presenter at Career Day for several years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this event sparks curiosity, fuels ambition, and opens up new possibilities for young minds.
Career Day plays an essential role in helping students understand the world of work. For many young people, their future career feels like a distant and abstract idea. They might not have a clear understanding of the variety of professions out there or the pathways that can lead them to success. Career Day bridges that gap by bringing professionals directly into the classroom, offering students a chance to learn about different industries, career roles, and the skills needed to succeed.
Career Day allows students to see that careers come in all shapes and sizes. This year’s 25+ presenters represented their industries from education to law enforcement to welding to a worm farmer and many more. Career Day also encourages students to think about their own interests and how those might translate into a future career. When they see someone in a job they admire or relate to, it becomes a tangible possibility for them.
As a seasoned Career Day presenter, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with students over the years, and it’s been fascinating to watch how student engagement has evolved. When I first presented four years ago, I had 12 girls sign up for my presentation. Over the years, the number of students attending has steadily increased. While I’m sure the goodie bags help, I hope the value of what I share with the students extends far beyond just giving out free products. As a Supply Chain Manager at a beauty company, my job isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when people think about the glamorous world of cosmetics and skincare. However, I try to emphasize that the supply chain work behind the scenes is just as crucial in making beauty products available.
Career Day is more than just a day to talk about jobs; it’s an opportunity to inspire students and help them envision the possibilities for their future. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my time during Career Day, it’s that the students are ready and eager to take on the world. We just need to provide them with the inspiration and tools to get there.
Thank you Ms. Torman, Dr. Sonntag and the HBR Middle School teachers for their work and support to make this day happen.
Written By: Allison Pickert, HBR Parent and Career Day Presenter