december 2010
Monarch Beach
sunrise rotary on the california riviera
Vocational Day Preps Future Leaders by Tracey Nicholson
Adults often have a significant impact on the career decisions of many young teens. Teens are inspired by relationships and interactions they have with parents, teachers, coaches and members of the community. While teens are exposed to various professions, rarely do they have the opportunity to experience their chosen career before entering the field after college graduation. On November 10th, The Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary’s 21st Annual Vocational Day, chaired by Nancy Baumann, provided this job-shadowing experience for Dana Hills and Aliso Niguel High School seniors. The event attracted 140 high school seniors, and many dignitaries and business leaders. The day began with breakfast at the Ritz Carlton and an overview of Rotary. Special guest speaker, Steve Creech, Vice President of Wyland Worldwide, shared his perspective on overcoming obstacles and thinking creatively in today’s business environment. He discussed his life working at Wyland, traveling around the world for a company with a purpose: “Reaching out to people everywhere with a message of art, nature, and community.” Afterwards, the teens shadowed various vocations side by side with their mentors. Teens were able to ask questions that they normally wouldn’t, such as, “How much money do you make?” This open environment was an opportunity for the teens to discover more about their desired profession, make a personal connection and learn about the work world. The day ended with lunch at On the Border Restaurant in Aliso Viejo, a great way to wrap up the day’s discussions and end on a high note and a full stomach. Vocational Day proved to be a tremendous hands-on learning experience, creating an opportunity to build business awareness and connections and make a direct impact on the future leaders of America!
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