More than 90 students from Windsor Central High School, primarily from the junior class, participated in the 8th annual Day With Professionals on Friday. Twenty-two professionals from various careers helped students initiate their career exploration. Students engaged in one-on-one or small group discussions with each professional.
Broome County District Attorney Paul Battisti and New York State Supreme Court Justice and Administrative Judge for the 6th Judicial District Eugene Faughnan met with students interested in pursuing a career in law.
“I wanted to broaden my scope of who I talk to and the professionals I meet. I’ve met many medical professionals in the fields I want to enter, but I haven’t interacted much with people in other fields,” said junior Abby Criddle, who spoke with both Battisti and Faughnan. “I’m interested in law and politics, and today helped me see how dynamic different fields can be. I didn’t know there were various medical professionals who work within the law.”
“It’s really inspirational. It’s amazing how educated, prepared, and knowledgeable the students I spoke with today are,” said Battisti. “I think back to my days at Seton Catholic Central, not knowing what I wanted to do with my life. Having the opportunity to sit down with professionals in areas that interest you allows you to learn what they see as essential steps for students moving forward.”
The professionals shared their career paths and advised students on how to get the best start in their careers, whether that involves college, the military, or entering the workforce.
“I’ve been taking medical classes here, so it was helpful to talk to someone currently in the field,” said junior Lexi Conrad, who spoke to a nurse and a physician's assistant. “I want to continue on this path. Today helped steer me away from some paths – away from fields the nurse discussed that I know I’m not interested in.”
“Day with Professionals is an opportunity for students to connect with individuals in fields they are considering pursuing after high school. It gives students the chance to connect with someone local, start building their networks, and seek opportunities, such as job shadowing,” said WCHS Career Counselor Heather Noyd.
This event is part of Windsor’s Future Ready Knights program, which enables students to explore careers through ten different pathways: Business/Finance, Career & Technical Education, Computer Science, Agriculture, Biomedical Science, Human Services, Fine Arts, Education, Construction Trades, and Engineering, supported by internships, mentorships, and apprenticeships.