Great Oak Middle School eighth graders got a glimpse of what their futures could be and learned a little bit about what it takes to reach their goals Jan. 21 at career day.
Doctors, lawyers, pilots, law enforcement and emergency responders from the community gathered to speak to approximately 250 students sharing what they do and how they did it.
Dr. John Signorella told students what he likes best about being a chiropractor is healing people holistically without the use of drugs.
Attorney Francis Teodosio said a good lawyer can absorb a lot of information with the ability to think outside the box.
Students were told some professions may start as hobbies, as it did for photographer Fred Ortoli, who has a college degree in chemistry.
“There is field for every interest and an opportunity to be fun exciting and creative,” he said.
State Trooper David Ives said becoming a police officer involves a lengthy application process and extensive background check, along with mental and physical evaluations to even be considered for the job.
Ives added the advantages are job security while the demands include dealing with dangerous people and long hours.
Jerry Schwab, executive director of the Oxford Ambulance Association and paramedic said working in emergency situations is both rewarding and stressful.
“You always have to love people and be there to help them,” he said.
Eighth grade student Michael Hunyadi said does not know what he interested in yet, but the presentation gave him food for thought.
“It gave me some insight into what I can do,” he said.
Ryan Peterson said he was most interested in the chiropractor’s presentation.
“It looks like fun,” he said.
Brian Murphy, principal of Great Oaks said the presentation is great for students who are trying to find their strengths.
“Today they were able to listen to listen to different careers,” he said. “This gives them choices for their future,” he said.
Debbie Sherman, coordinator of the event, said speakers were chosen by a student survey earlier in the year to determine their interests.
