Graves Middle School held a Career Day at their school on Thursday, February 27, for students to hear about different careers from a variety of professionals.
Career professionals from a variety of industries came to Graves Middle School and gave presentations to students about career opportunities they can go into.
The morning began with a meet and greet with all presenters that attended. South Whittier’s Superintendent, Dr. Gonzales, and Graves principal, Dr. Trena Gonzalez, welcomed attendees and shared comments of gratitude.
“You never know if what you say today sparks an interest in a student. So thank you so very much for what you are doing today and the dreams you may even start today,” South Whittier Superintendent, Dr. Gonzales, shared.
After the meet and greet presenters went to meet students. They shared with students about what they do, their professional industry, and the education and credentials it took to get them there. They also shared with students about the obstacles that they had to endure to get where they are. Many spoke about how perseverance and determination was a big part of getting them to where they are today.
After each presentation students rotated to different classrooms so they could hear from a variety of professionals. This was a school-wide event and all students were able to participate.
One of the presenters included Whittier councilman, Josué Alvarado. Mr. Alvarado shared that his family were immigrants from Mexico and he told students that he was raised in South Whittier just like them. He discussed that when he attended high school the drop out rate was nearly 50% and that he was determined to do better.
Alvarado not only graduated high school but went on to receive his Associate’s Degree from Rio Hondo College and his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Cal State University, Fullerton. Aside from being a Whittier council member, he is also a father, husband, and an active real estate agent in Whittier.
Some other professionals that attended the event were a Civil Engineer from Los Angeles County Public Work, the Deputy Director from the Office of Supervisor Janice Hahn, Police Academy Director from Rio Hondo, a Professor of Geological Sciences, an Event Coordinator from Power 106, the LA Sheriff Department, a Public Defender from LA County Public Defender's Office, and many others.