Students learn about careers

By MICHAEL D. McELWAIN (mmcelwain@reviewonline.com)
NEW CUMBERLAND — For the 16th year, an innovative program held at Oak Glen Middle School gave eighth-grade students an opportunity to sample some of the many career choices available.

Oak Glen Middle School Principal Donna Popovich has spearheaded the program since its inception.

“I hope the students get some idea when they start their five-year plan about some of the possible careers out there,” Popovich said. “The program sort of motivates them to hear more about an opportunity and say, ‘Yes. This is what I really want to do.’”

The plans were actually put into action several weeks ago when Popovich sent students the first of two surveys asking them to rate their interest in some 60 different professions.

“From there I narrow it down to the top 30 and I send that survey out and the students pick the top four fields they are interested in and attend those sessions,” the principal said.

The sessions were held Thursday morning where some 30 professionals showed up on campus and gave 30 minute presentations.

Oak Glen Middle School student, and New Cumberland resident, Megan Beatty attended sessions on physical therapy, pharmacy, dental hygenics and computer technology.

“I thought the physical therapy was interesting,” Beatty said. “I want to see what an optometrist does as well.”

The career day program also has a fan in fellow student and Chester resident Cody Churchill.

“It helped us out with our high school planning,” the member of next school year’s freshman class said. “I think the whole thing is pretty cool. It’s a good little break from the day.”

Along with the computer science field, Churchill listened to presentations on photography, the military and law enforcement.

The usual career fields were represented — some with multiple sessions because of student interest.

Some of the more unique career paths discussed included the culinary arts, acting and welding.

“There is always interest in the military and the police fields, but now the work of a chef has become popular. Perhaps it’s all the cooking shows on television now,” Popovich said.

Each speaker was given a gift of appreciation for spending some time at Oak Glen Middle School.

“I’m hoping the students look to the future with a little more confidence now and have decided they want to be the best,” Popovich said.