In December, eighth-graders at Martin Meylin Middle School had an opportunity to learn about various occupations during the school's annual career day. Throughout the day, professionals and members of the local community visited different classrooms to offer insight on their fields and to share their experiences with students as they discern what path to take after they graduate from high school.

Career day kicked off in the cafeteria with an opening presentation from Ben Styles, a school counselor from the Lancaster County Career and Technology Center. Styles spoke to the eighth-graders about skills that are necessary to work in any field, such as cooperating with others, showing up to work on time and other general topics. After the presentation, groups of students took turns hearing from guest speakers set up in different classrooms. The speakers included a physical therapist, an accountant, a veterinarian, an aerospace engineer and many other working professionals.

"Being able to speak to someone in person gives students an opportunity to ask any question that comes to mind. It's the most important piece," said Kerri Eberly, who organizes career day and works as guidance counselor at Martin Meylin Middle School. "When they speak to different presenters, they can learn nuances about a career that you might not see when researching it online."

Martin Meylin Middle School held its first career day in 2016. School staff members wanted to assist students as they transitioned to high school, as they recognized that hearing from real professionals in the community could help students pick out courses that will would their goals. For many years, Martin Meylin Middle School has offered its students an online tool to explore career opportunities, but career day has allowed students to obtain a more realistic view of the working world.

Every year, Eberly first contacts eighth-graders' family members who may want to participate in career day as a guest speaker. Eberly also works with multiple local agencies to find presenters, and she tries to incorporate a wide range of vocations. Although the event features new speakers each year, certain occupations such as law enforcement and veterinary medicine are always highlighted due to their popularity among students.

In the future, Eberly hopes to expand career day to include additional grades. The event has been well received by students and their families, but additional guest speakers would be required for the school to offer it to a larger student population. "We're always looking for different folks who want to come in," Eberly said. "Anyone is always welcome to contact the middle school to be considered for the next career day."

For more information, call Martin Meylin Middle School at 717-464-3311.