Kids and Careers

Pharmacist.  Vet tech.  Auto and diesel mechanic.  Welding.  Nursing.  Culinary arts.  Physical therapist.  Radiology.  Actress. Occupational therapist.  Counselor.  Singer.  Aviation.  Graphic design.  Broadcasting.  Tool and die.

Our seniors have some great career plans.

A representative for a local college visited today and rather than do the typical sales pitch for the particular school, his focus was on getting the kids to continue (or begin!) to think about their post-graduate plans.  His high-energy, fast-paced, incredibly informational presentation engaged all of them today and I hope they left with a better sense of where they are and where they want to go when they are finished at MHS.

  Mark Heaton, representating Baker College Systems from around the state, delivered his annual address to the seniors today.  They viewed statistics about the job market and necessary training or education in 1970 compared to 2012 (above).  The key is that 70% of jobs require some training after high school, but less than 4 years of preparation.  Very eye opening to a society that screams "go to college" as soon as kids are freshmen.  And while a 4-year university may be right for some kids and careers, the point here is that it is not for everyone.  We want our students to be able to consider all of their options, knowing that they do need some kind of preparation for the career of their choice.

He then presented questions to consider as kids think about where they want to go and what they want to do, emphasizing the importance of visiting campuses and taking tours of facilities.  And I reiterate this important piece:  my college choice oh-so-many years ago hinged on WMU and Kalamazoo College and me stepping foot on each campus to get a feel for it.  Meeting the faculty, seeing real students in action, peeking into lecture halls and labs is vital to making a good choice about where one might spend the next several years - and several thousands of dollars!

Of course Baker College and its many campuses and successful programs was a highlight - wouldn't be fair not to promote it!  And some of our kids will probably choose one of the campuses as a place to study culinary arts (Muskegon, Port Huron), truck driving (Mt Clemens), vet tech (Port Huron and others), interior design, accounting, education, and any number of careers in the four hot career fields:  business, medical, technology, and education/human services.  So check it out if it is interesting to you.

Hopefully, the gears began to turn as the seniors continue to complete applications, see recruiters, and field questions about their plans from relatives.  And by May, they should be ready to go!