Chamber promotes life lessons for students

Date: 1/21/2009

By Katelyn Gendron

Reminder Assistant Editor



AGAWAM Participants in the West of the River Chamber of Commerce third annual Career Day at Agawam Junior High want students to know that they don't have to have their life plan figured out by the 12th grade.

On Jan. 29, over 20 area professionals will showcase their careers during the event. Eighth graders will be participating in marching drills with the ROTC, practice martial arts, apply the latest makeup techniques and assess risks of some of nation's most celebrated roller coasters.

"You might not have an idea of what you're going to do but you will figure it out and you will find something that fits, even if it's not necessarily [your college] major," Meghan Rothschild, advertising and promotions manager at Six Flags New England, and a participant in the Career Day, said.

Rothschild explained that she graduated from college with a degree in journalism but quickly realized that career wouldn't pay the bills so she turned to a new field. She said that while at the junior high she will emphasize the importance of knowing yourself and not succumbing to the idea that you have to have your career figured out at age 16.

Attorney Abbe McLane, participant in the event, agreed.

"I do feel that there is a lot of pressure [for students to know what they want to do with their lives] but there are also a lot of opportunities for them to change [their minds]," she said.

McLane explained that she will emphasize the importance of dedication and proper study habits for all those seeking a law degree. She said her profession is demanding and rewarding.

Debra Hunter, Career Center coordinator, said she chooses each of the Career Day speakers based on student interest and growing trends in certain professions, such as the growing need for medical professionals and accountants.

She explained that it is also important to emphasize the value of all professions, not just the ones that may earn six figures a year.

"[Career Day] is about [the students] building the knowledge of what it takes for them to be these individuals," Hunter said. "I also like to bring in the hands-on careers like cosmetology and automotive [repair]. I want them understand that careers are everything from white collar to blue collar."

Alan Rogers, education committee chair for the West of the River Chamber of Commerce noted that a variety of professions will be represented at the event, such as acting, radio production, banking, police and fire personnel, healthcare and professional sports broadcasting.

Rothschild said she is looking forward to the event because she believes that "it's important for kids to see positive role models that really enjoy their jobs."