ZOOMing into a career

The Career Exploration Workshop via Zoom was a fantastic way for the young adults from Mount Vernon and New Rochelle to engage with esteemed professionals from various fields, all of whom shared valuable information and insight.

The panelist consisted of the members from the Center for College & Careers advisory board who have careers in business/consulting, technology, medicine, law, and nonprofit leadership. There were 39 student participants on the Zoom, and the students were attentive and inquisitive. So much so that we ran out of time before the they ran out of questions.

Students posed various questions to the to the panelist, such as: “What advice would you give to your younger self? What advice would you give to a college freshman? Does your company offer internships for high school and college students?”

As a College and Career Counselor, I always emphasize to the high school students that academics are the most critical factor on a college application, followed by extra-curricular activities, community service, and volunteering.

Kaishaun N. is a senior at Mount Vernon High school, and he shares his thoughts about the workshop:

"The career panel was great. I had an excellent opportunity to ask people who work in the same field that I am interested which is technology. Even though many students were there, I felt that the panelist did not ignore me; all my questions were brought up, and all the panelists answered. I hope that soon I will be able to attend another panel and hopefully get in contact with the panelist."

The Career Exploration Workshop is a useful resource and opportunity for students to think about their careers and map out their future. On behalf of the students and the Center for College & Careers staff, I’d like to thank our advisory board members for their commitment to supporting our students as they pursue their passions.

Advisory board participants included: Carolyn Champ, Associate Executive Director, Support Center • Matt Feinberg, Associate at law firm of Milber Makris Plousadis & Seiden, LLP • Heather McGowan, MD, Pediatrician • Aparna Prabhakar, Vice President, IBM Corporate Strategy • Jeff Wordham, Partner, Deloitte Consulting.

Contributed by Dawn Barrett, College & Career Counselor, Center for College & Careers