On Wednesday, March 21, students came to school prepared to participate in De Soto High School’s first ever College and Career Day. DHS administration put together a day for students that would inform them about college, career options and life skills. All day, students traveled to 45 minute sessions, of which they were allowed to choose, and also attended a speaker presentation.

Earlier in the month, DHS students went online and selected sessions for Career Day that they wished to be a part of. Some classes consisted of Life in Dorm Room, Life as a Teacher, What to Know when Renting an Apartment, Life as a Collegiate Athlete and Skilled Trades. In each class, students were a part of a presentation led by either a DHS faculty member, a student’s parent skilled in that specific field, a former student or volunteer.

Junior Stephanie Hinchey’s favorite part of College and Career Day was “learning about college from people that are or have recently experienced it because it makes me more comfortable for what’s to come in the future.”

There was also a speaker who addressed each class about bullying and empathy. Joe Coles, from Coldwater, Kan., is a well-known counselor that travels to present and counsel schools throughout the U.S. During his presentation he got students on their feet and shared with them the true meaning of empathy, while showing them examples of how one action can save someone’s life, just by being a friend.

“I’ve seen dozens of presentations on bulling and they all said the same thing, but I actually felt like I learned something new. His sections on empathy and standing up for others were really thought provoking and I now know the true meaning of those words,” freshman Connor Kennard said.

Career Day 2012 was a success. Students got an inside look into the real world, while also being reminded how to be a positive influence.