Nearly 50 professionals, representing various career fields, took time to speak about their chosen careers to the students at Avalon Middle School during the school’s annual ‘Career Day.’
Click here to see a photo gallery from Avalon Middle School's 'Career Day'
Patsy White, who helped organize the event on behalf of the school’s student government association, said this event would not only allow students to see the various types of career paths but it will allow them to learn what kind of educational background each profession requires.
“It perks up their interest in new and different fields,” White said. “There is a career somewhere out there that can suit their interest as well as their ability.”
The event featured different occupations within a certain career field. For example, the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol and the Santa Rosa County Department of Corrections, were all represented the different careers in law enforcement.
Law enforcement was far from the only career fields represented at the event on Wednesday, which included an chiropractor, dog trainer, archaeologist, environment biologist, pharmacist, military pilots were just a few professions represented at the event. University of West Florida’s athletic director and baseball coach were also spoke to students.
One of the guest speakers was James Parker, a prosecutor with the state attorney’s office. Parker was more than happy to participate in the event.
“I think it’s good that they get the exposure to the variety of different occupations,” Parker said. “My dad told me if you find something you enjoy doing, then you will never work a day in your life and that’s true.”
Parker said he has been an assistant state attorney for the past 30 years. All of that time has been spent as a prosecutor, Parker said.
“I enjoy every minute of it,” he said.
SGA historian Malia Nord, who is interested in exploring a career as an social worker or photographer, said the goal of the event is to expand the horizons of fellow classmates.
“There are many who don’t know what they want to do or (they) are just focused on being a teacher,” she said. “We are trying to help the students see that there are many options out there.”
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Professionals share insight during Avalon Middle School’s ‘Career Day’ (PHOTOS)