NMS Students Prepare For Career Day

By Laurie Borst

Later this month, Newtown Middle School students will participate in Career Day. People from the community will visit the school and eighth graders will have the opportunity to meet with some of them. But first, they need to figure out what careers might interest them.

During the week of October 2, eighth graders have been working in the computer lab exploring a website, access.bridges.com. The site offers a short survey with questions designed to focus on the student’s strengths and interests. Based on the responses, the computer compiles a list of up to 100 career fields for which that student might be suited.

There was lots of excitement in the room as Ron Chivinski’s social studies class began working with the program on October 4. Assisted by Al Beattini of the guidance department and Bruce Mouthrop, technology specialist, the students navigated the site.

Once they got their lists of careers, students could select one and learn what people in that field do, salary and job outlook, education needed, and interview strategies. They also had the option to investigate careers that did not appear on their suggested lists.

Eighth grader Michael Gould has an affinity for math and science. He was not surprised when the computer suggested he become a neurosurgeon. That is exactly what he wants to be. “But where did boat captain and telecommunications manager come from?” he wondered.

Marissa Cascella was disappointed that psychologist and music video producer did not come up on her list, but was happy to see that TV producer and film director did. Her friend Jamie Crespo was pleased to see beauty pageant producer and fashion designer on her list.

Students expressed surprise when they clicked on salary for a job and found the average rate of pay much higher or much lower than they expected. Mr Beattini explained to them how the average salary was found, taking into account rates of pay in different parts of the country.

The access.bridges.com program allows students to search for colleges based on interest criteria that they enter. Volunteer and recreational activities can be researched from this site, too. The high school Career Center also uses this program.