Figuring out what to do for a future career is nerve-racking for many students, especially when they don’t know where to start. Luckily, PHS serves field trips for students, aiming to introduce them to a variety of careers and help guide them on the journey towards their future. They’re called “Career Treks”, and are incredibly beneficial for any student deciding between or curious about certain careers.

High school brings its own stress with the workload and increasing difficulty as the years pass, an idea definitely voiced from the seniors each year. This, in addition to having to plan for college, seems to be a major factor for stress and it’s no wonder when many are struggling to put the pieces together. According to Liz Freedman at Butler University, approximately 20-50% percent of students enter college as “undecided” and 75% of students change their major at least once before graduation. Though some may see this as an opportunity for leeway in deciding what they want to do, it can be pricey switching and adds onto existing stress.

Here At PHS, the Career Treks are organized by Career Advisor, Mrs. Turner, and  are specifically made to lessen this problem. The Career Treks span across a wide selection of industries such as beauty, manufacturing, healthcare, business and aviation. One beneficial aspect of them is that you can sign up for anyone that you’d like as long as a spot is available, serving as open opportunities for anyone. Furthermore, they are free or charge. Students might be aware of the emails Mrs. Turner sends often which include information on upcoming opportunities.

Now, many may feel hesitant to take a Career Trek especially if they are missing a valuable class. However, there will always be ways to get the information you miss, either from your teacher or fellow peer. Letting them know early on can also help remind them that you’ll be gone, and it shouldn’t be a problem at all.

Additionally, Career Treks individually share their own valuable experiences where you may talk with professionals in the field and gain insight on what the careers are truly like behind the scenes. Of course, it’s harder to find certain professionals since it isn’t typical to find them in or inside school environments. So, taking Career Treks can help get you connected with people you don’t meet on a typical occasion.

For instance, I recently took a field trip to Northrop Grumman in Rolling Meadows, an American Aerospace and defense company that designs and manufactures a wide range of products and serves as a cornerstone for American defense. There, I was able to speak with leading engineers individually and ask them questions, something I wouldn’t be able to do otherwise. Additionally, I along with other students could even assist in testing equipment, an extraordinary experience.

Another recent example of mine was attending the trip to the Schaumburg Regional airport where students heard from various individuals regarding the vast job opportunities in aviation. Not only did I and other students receive thorough information, but fun stories from others in the field and a tour of the facilities. This allowed me to get a real glimpse of what daily life and energy is like there, strengthening my decision to enter the field.

Not only that, but I made friends on all of my trips that I still talk to this day. So, Career Treks also allow for students to get to know each other, ask questions, and share their curiosity together.

Don’t be afraid to grab a flyer from the media center and start exploring your options. Who knows, maybe the Career Treks won’t just help you find your path towards the future, but leave you with memories you’ll remember for the rest of your life.