Students Explore Future Careers During Spring Break

Over the last week, our Out of School time students spent the week learning about new career opportunities during Career Week. The week kicked off with a visit to the new National Museum of African American History and Culture on Tuesday, followed by a visit from D.C. Councilmember At-Large, Robert White.  Over the next two days, the students had the opportunity to participate in a career fair, and also received visits from a veterinarian to a Marine Fighter Pilot.

D.C. Councilmember At-Large Robert White and Marine Fighter Pilot Major Ralph Featherstone each shared their journeys from DCPS students to college and their future successes. Major Featherstone demonstrated how a fighter jet works in conjunction with his jumpsuit as well as discussed he vast experience working across the globe, while Councilmember White shared his advice for supporting the D.C. community and peers, and explained how his life changed after losing his mother at a young age. He encouraged students not to give up, even when faced with disappointments and failure.

The week prior, each student spent time outlining their goals for their future career and lifestyle. One student expressed his passion for animals, and his aspiration to become a veterinarian. To his surprise, Dr. Elton Vyfhuis from Paws, Purrs &Exotics in Alexandria was coming to speak with his class. Dr. Vyfhuis surprised the students with some animal friends: two turtles and a python!

The activities gave students the opportunity to learn about various professions across a broad range of industries. Students took photos, asked questions, some received their own police badges, and got to play music alongside musician,Stephawn Lindsay from Dreams N Reach Artist Management Company.  Participants included police officers from the Police Department, insurance agents from State Farm, a Priest from a local church, Photographer, Brian Freeman, a judge from Pre-Trial Services, and teacher from DCPS, and many others!

Overall the week was a true success and the students were thrilled to learn more about the career opportunities they can reach for! Check out some awesome photos from the week!