Choosing Careers in High School
Students are faced with the daunting task of choosing a career that will determine the direction of their lives. For those who might be overwhelmed with options – or perhaps don’t know where to start – there are several tools available in order to get started.
Discovering one’s interests and passions is key when choosing a career path most suited for oneself. Teachers and counselors are available to aid students and help them explore different options and search for programs that provide insight into those careers.
Depending on each student’s interests, some programs may even stem from UHS clubs.
UHS drama students recently traveled to Illinois State University (ISU) to participate in the Illinois High School Theatre Festival. This event provides theatre students from across the state with a chance to hone their skills and attend performances.
“TheatreFest is an opportunity for students to get exposed to multiple facets of theatre, but more importantly to network. You get to meet other likeminded theatre kids who may have similar career ambitions and talk about what you’re doing and how you’re doing it,” said Tim Broeker, UHS teacher and drama director. “Even better, TheatreFest gives the option to network with theatre professionals from different organizations across the state and even sometimes from across the U.S.”
While there, I attended workshops that not only inspired me and taught me a great deal, but also allowed me to be immersed in a crowd of people pursuing a common interest.
Broeker continued, “One of the key components is the exhibitor’s area where universities and other companies are set up for information and conversation. This gives students the chance to talk with them and learn about what it takes to attend their institution or work for their corporation. Also, students are given the chance to interview/audition for multiple institutions right on the spot, gaining professional experience and, hopefully, opportunities for a future in multiple areas of the performing arts.”
In addition to specialized programs like the festival, students can also sign up for exploratory elective classes and internships within the community.
I find that I feel a great amount of pressure to have a definitive answer when asked what I will do for the rest of my life or where I want to attend college. Although this decision will take time and consideration, knowing that there are resources to guide you in the right direction is reassuring.
Discovering one’s interests and passions is key when choosing a career path most suited for oneself. Teachers and counselors are available to aid students and help them explore different options and search for programs that provide insight into those careers.
Depending on each student’s interests, some programs may even stem from UHS clubs.
UHS drama students recently traveled to Illinois State University (ISU) to participate in the Illinois High School Theatre Festival. This event provides theatre students from across the state with a chance to hone their skills and attend performances.
“TheatreFest is an opportunity for students to get exposed to multiple facets of theatre, but more importantly to network. You get to meet other likeminded theatre kids who may have similar career ambitions and talk about what you’re doing and how you’re doing it,” said Tim Broeker, UHS teacher and drama director. “Even better, TheatreFest gives the option to network with theatre professionals from different organizations across the state and even sometimes from across the U.S.”
While there, I attended workshops that not only inspired me and taught me a great deal, but also allowed me to be immersed in a crowd of people pursuing a common interest.
Broeker continued, “One of the key components is the exhibitor’s area where universities and other companies are set up for information and conversation. This gives students the chance to talk with them and learn about what it takes to attend their institution or work for their corporation. Also, students are given the chance to interview/audition for multiple institutions right on the spot, gaining professional experience and, hopefully, opportunities for a future in multiple areas of the performing arts.”
In addition to specialized programs like the festival, students can also sign up for exploratory elective classes and internships within the community.
I find that I feel a great amount of pressure to have a definitive answer when asked what I will do for the rest of my life or where I want to attend college. Although this decision will take time and consideration, knowing that there are resources to guide you in the right direction is reassuring.
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