Twin Lakes School welcomed 22 speakers to its 2024 Career Day themed “Find Your Future”. A majority of the Career Day guests were former MVSD students, even a few Twin Lakes alumni, who enjoyed returning to the school and giving back to the community.
Students in second through eighth grade had the opportunity to attend two sessions to hear about a variety of careers from professionals in various fields including architecture, nutrition, education, clinical social work, mortgage/real estate, commercial banking, college planning, 3D environmental art, marriage and family therapy, school and school district administration, dentistry, veterinary care, nursing, physical therapy, speech/language pathology, property management, information systems technology, law enforcement, city politics and more. The students enjoyed hearing from the professionals about their various jobs, as well as the path it takes to get them.
“We greatly appreciate you all giving of your time to provide our students with wonderful insight into your careers and help them focus on their future,” said Melissa Rogers, Twin Lakes teacher and one of the Career Day coordinators addressing the guest speakers. “It is great to have so many former students here to provide inspiration for our students, as well as a connection to someone who has had success from their school and community.”
Martin Nava brought along two adorable puppies for his presentation on his career as a Veterinary Technician. Students were eager to learn about a few of the many careers in the animal care industry Nava highlighted including Vet Tech, Registered Vet Tech, Veterinary Tech Specialist and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. Nava shared that he always liked animals and is happy he was able to turn his love for animals into a good career.
Regional Commercial Property Manager, Gabriela Medford was excited to be back at her former elementary school and talk to the students about her job in property management. Medford currently oversees the operations of 13 retail shopping centers in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
“It’s fun to be back at Twin Lakes,” said Medford. “Walking through the halls, it looks exactly the same. I really enjoyed my time here as a student and I hope I can inspire some of the current students today with my presentation.”
Former MVSD student and current MVSD Board of Education President, Christian Diaz, provided an overview of his job as a Medical Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He shared with the students that his desire to help people is what drove him into the profession.
“When I was growing up I knew I wanted to have a job where I could help people,” said Diaz. “I ended up in social work which has been very rewarding. Continuing your education is important and I encourage you to work hard in school, set goals and surround yourself with good people. Where you end up and the connections you make is what makes the difference.”
Sharing about his career as a College Access Counselor, Miguel Zarate explained how he helps people decide what they want to do for college and career. Zarate is a former Twin Lakes student who grew up in El Monte.
“I really love what I do,” said Zarate who works at Riverside Community College. “It’s very rewarding to help people decide their career path. When choosing a career or a job it’s important to remember to have a good work–life balance.”
The Career Day event wrapped up with a barbecue lunch for the guest speakers, courtesy of Twin Lakes Principal, Dr. Alberto Alvarez.
“I am grateful to all of our Career Day guests for empowering our students to start making plans for their future and take steps toward their goals,” said Alvarez. “For our eighth graders, this is a perfect time for them to hear from professionals as they make their transition into high school. On behalf of all of us at Twin Lakes thank you so much for your time and for investing in our students.”