Hundreds of Nipomo students inspired at Dana Elementary career day

Hundreds of students at Dana Elementary School in Nipomo were given an opportunity today to see what it takes to become a teacher, firefighter, police officer, chef and even a news reporter.

The three-hour event was the school’s annual career day, which was held this morning inside the school’s cafeteria.

The educational event gave all students, kindergarten through 6th grade a chance to speak one-on-one with professionals from a wide variety of industries.

Guest speakers told students personal stories about their jobs, as well as inform them about the educational requirements needed to pursue their occupations.

“I like learning about all the jobs that everyone else has and I like learning about where the education you can get them in,” said Adrianna Dart.

While the kids may be several years away from ultimately choosing a career, many recognized the significance of the speaking to working adults.

“A lot of adults say you have a long time to think about it, but as you get older, the time gets shorter, so I think it was a pretty good idea to do this,” said 6th grader Tristin Moser.

Students in 3rd through 6th grades were given a packet with interview questions, while younger students spoke with the guests more informally,

The focus was to inspire the children about potential careers and to relay important information about educational requirements necessary to work in the field.

Speakers included representatives from California Highway Patrol, San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department, Cal Fire, San Luis Ambulance, Cuesta College, Allan Hancock College, Institute of Beauty Culture, Nipomo Public Library, Starbucks, International Culinary Institute, Mission Photography, Phillips 66, Honda of Santa Maria, Charter Cable, United Launch Alliance and Dana Elementary School.

Also taking part in the careery day was longtime KCOY reporter/anchor Dave Alley, who spoke to the kids about working the television news industry.