Occupation Celebration Exposes Careers to Bell Elementary Students

17 professionals brought their real-world experience into the classroom at Occupation Celebration at Bell Elementary school.

First responders, an archeologist and an attorney were among those who shared their career expertise with the students.

"I learned that archeologists mostly don't do dinosaur bones. They look at animal bones, rocks and ancient things," said 5th grader Belle Indelicato.

"I try to set them straight that it's not about digging up dinosaurs. Everything around us is a possible artifact. Things they're using now can be studied by future generations," said archeologist Andrea Zlotucha Kozub. 

She wasn't the only one to clear up misconceptions.

"I wanted to make sure what they learn is that being a veterinarian isn't the only job you can have to work with animals," said licensed veterinary technician Marty Sullivan,

"I wanted them to know about the diversity in nursing. It isn't just women. It can be anybody," said nurse Jamie Turcottte,

But in addition to leanring what might not be true about certain jobs, the students also discovered what is, sometimes in amusing detail.

"I learned about how police officers go to this academy to get trained. They get pepper sprayed and tazed," said fifh grader Christopher Segrue.

"I learned you're actually allowed to hack on a computer if you have permission," said fifth grader Jeremy Litchko.

Hopefully ready to use their newfound knowledge for good, these students have a better understanding of a number of professions, and what it takes to succeed in them.