Career Day Spotlights Occupations, Goal-setting and Giving Back

Career Day exposed students to a variety of occupations and provided them with the opportunity to hear some amazing stories about careers. Over 30 professionals – many of them Carroll alumni – participated in this event. Students had a chance to meet those working in engineering, banking, accounting, medicine, real estate, law, law enforcement, fire and EMS, and the military, among other fields.

Career Day was spearheaded by Ms. Sonya Wilson, Carroll’s business and law teacher, and co-chaired by Ms. Stacy Rubens, director of alumni and constituent affairs. Having organized the annual event for the last eleven years, Ms. Wilson is pleased with how it has grown. She says, “[Career Day] has gone from a ‘friends of Carroll’ event to one that draws on the talents of a broader network of professionals who are all committed to supporting Carroll students.”

For B. Doyle Mitchell ’80, president and CEO of Industrial Bank, speaking to students was a great way to pass on pertinent information. He shared, "I wanted to participate in career day to enhance the wonderful learning experience students receive at Carroll and to provide practical knowledge about finances the students can use immediately.”

A common theme throughout the day was “the journey.” Presenters spoke about the role of faith and how it led them to their true calling. While some have known their calling since high school, others shared more circuitous journeys that included switching careers and eventually finding a good fit. Words of wisdom were plentiful, along with the imparting of life lessons gained along the way.

“I want to give back all of what Carroll gave me – a chance and future,” says Byron Dixon ‘83, a Fire/ EMS Lieutenant with the Arlington County Fire Department and a member of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Hands-on activities got students excited thinking about the endless possibilities that await them after high school and college. During a presentation by one of the engineers, students participated in a science experiment where they were tasked with lifting each other up with one finger. During another presentation by a media professional, students created their own talk show and took the reins with the camera, lighting, and audio.

Michael Murphy '64, an account executive with Contract Business Interiors, travelled all the way from Atlanta to particpate. "Being unable to be present for my class of ’64 reunion, I felt it was my duty to be present and accounted for at Career Day this year. My schedule permitted me to make the trip and it was an honor for me to share my input with students."

Career day exposed students to the types of professionals they will one day become. Beyond learning about career fields of interest, students benefitted in a variety of ways including gaining practical knowledge, learning about internships, and establishing relationships with potential mentors.


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