When will I ever use this? Why does this matter? These common questions are asked frequently from students to their teachers in regards to complex concepts and material that students encounter at school. Students constantly want to know how their learning applies to “the real world.” Therefore, 7th grade teachers at Bethel Middle School decided to host the first of what they hope will be a series of Career Fairs focused on specific professions seen throughout our community and nation. For the first Career Fair, 7th grade chose to focus on the medical profession. “We want to give students the opportunity to see where subjects like math and science are used every day and let them ask questions to professionals who can tell them exactly what it takes to be successful in their specific career field,” Ms. Boone, 7th grade science teacher, said.
Several community members from Haywood Regional Medical Center, Southwestern Community College, and Cogburn, Teague, and Van Praag Dentistry gave of their time to come and inform students about their personal careers in the medical field. Students traveled from room to room listening and engaging with each guest speaker, taking on exercise challenges, trying out different tools and devices that are used in the different professions, and soaking in the information and handouts provided by the guests.
Throughout the sessions, speakers addressed the education required for their line of work. They talked about the need to be strong academically, especially in math and science, and they walked them through the day to day challenges of medical work. Each guest also reminded students of what inspired them to enter their line of work, and they reiterated what hard work it takes to attain a position in their field. However, they encouraged students to start preparing now, as 7th graders, to learn all they possibly can, practice good study habits, be aware of the needs around them, and really tap into their interests and strengths which will guide them in the career of their choice.
BMS is so thankful to Susan Kimel- Physical Therapist from Southwestern Community College, Dr. Kerry Cogburn- DDS and his team of dental hygienists, Dr. James Guerriere – Pediatric Physician from Haywood Regional Medical Center and Andre Vandenberg – Exercise Physiologist also with HRMC. These guests definitely made daily studies applicable to life for the 7th grade students at Bethel Middle School.
Submitted by: Emily Fama, Bethel Middle School
