Counseling Corner: Addison Trail Guidance Department continues efforts to help students explore career options

The Addison Trail Guidance Department is committed to helping students prepare for successful futures.

As part of that focus, the department will host its annual Career Week from March 21 to 24. That event provides an opportunity for students to hear guest presenters speak about a variety of careers and ask questions about those fields. This is the third year Addison Trail is partnering with Junior Achievement of Chicago to access speakers from businesses and organizations throughout the Chicago area. Teachers choose speakers who match their subject area, so students can experience the relevancy of their studies to future career options available to them. Last year, nearly 45 speakers presented during Career Week, and 95 classes (2,380 students) participated. Careers that were showcased included physical therapy, veterinary science, personal training, chemistry, automotive technology, photography, x-ray technician/ultrasound technician and nutrition/dietician science.

Students also will attend a field trip to College of DuPage (COD) on March 17 to explore COD’s criminal justice and fire science programs. About 30 students will tour the college’s Homeland Security Training Institute and learn about 3+1 programs available in cooperation with regional colleges and universities. Those 3+1 programs offer an affordable and convenient way to earn a bachelor’s degree in a chosen field. For more information, go to http://tinyurl.com/h9qq9ae.

Guidance counselors also will meet with juniors in March and April for an individual Junior Interview to assess progress toward graduation and to discuss a plan of study for a career after high school. Counselors will discuss colleges and vocational schools that will help students meet their career goals as well. Details of this interview will be mailed home to parents.