Career Day: Working 9 to 5

Dolly Parton’s iconic song, “Working 9 to 5,” kicked off Upward Bound’s Career Day. Students had the opportunity to speak with professionals from CVS Pharmacy, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD), NCAA, Salesforce, IU Health, Indianapolis Fire Department, and a host of other companies. Upward Bound student Joseph Jackson defined Career Day as “inspirational and very informative.” With a speed dating twist, students were able to spend five minutes at each representative’s table and speak to them about their professions, educational backgrounds, what a typical day is like in their careers, and other topics of interest.

Gisele Brown from Ivy Tech Community College also met with the students for an interactive presentation on resume writing, interview skills, professional presence, and career choices. Brown appreciated the opportunity to share her passion for career development.

Job shadow opportunities were also completed and scheduled for Upward Bound students at Noah’s Animal Clinic, Reflections Beauty Salon, IMPD Crime Lab, IU Health, and FC Tucker Realtors. Upward Bound student Kin-Nyshia Meeks, who will have a job shadow experience during her winter break, is looking forward to her opportunity.

The afternoon wrapped up with Upward Bound students and Career Day professionals eating lunch together and continuing conversations about the students’ occupational interests and staying on the right path to achieve their goals. Jimmie McMillian, senior corporate counsel for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, had positive feedback about the day.