Career Day help (nwr)

mica178

I'm supposed to present my career to a bunch of middle school girls in a couple weeks. Having never seen a "Career Day" presentation in my life, I'd love it if you shared memorable ones or had an idea of how to make a career in geriatric medicine and/or academic medicine exciting to 13 year olds. This is a p&r as I'm in clinic as we speak. TIA

krizzo17

Tell any funny stories you might have, talk about something really great you were able to do because of your job, and what you were like when you were their age.

Most memorable career day presentation was the large animal vet who came to my bio class. We lived in a very built up suburb, so farm animals weren't something we saw on a regular basis. She brought a pony into our classroom. It was awesome. I realize that's no help, just sharing.

Avion22

WIthout being too preachy, I think it's important to let middle school girls know that there are a lot of women in the medical field -- even if it may not be entirely 50-50.   I agree about telling them about what you were like when you were their age (what you were interested), as well as explain what made you interested in medicine.    Then some neat stories about your job (cool things you've done or seen).

mbody

I'm a post secondary school counselor and have ran career days. I always ask presenters to address what subjects students should be taking in high school to help prepare them, what majors/pathways to the career. I realize that may be more applicable to HS students but I think still important to touch on in Jr. High.

Include a job description, working conditions (do you work in an office, lab, ect. do you mostly work alone or within a team) earnings, education needed, what personal/academic skills are important for the job and related careers. I always like to tell students what other jobs are "like" another one. You can always do "a day in the life of." What does your typical day look like? What are the things you like most about your job vs. the least?

Handouts are great with highlights of your presentation. I know you want to be interesting to Jr. High students (even some HS seniors didn't seem like they gave a hoot during ours) but I think it's the most important to show the realities of your career.

Check out: http://www.bls.gov/oco/
Find your career and you can use some of the information. It's a great tool!

mica178

Thank you for your help/advice!

Calypso1977

the biggest thing is keep them engaged with questions, etc.  involve them in your presentation.  kids that age have short attention spans so the move you involve them youll keep them interested.