By Anna-Carolina Knapp

High school is that period when you’re deciding what to do with your whole future, and that can be intimidating for most. At Granada Hills Charter (GHC), the Intervention Department and After Hours Activities (AHA) program hosts Career Speaker Workshops for GHC students, allowing them to explore a large variety of professions and careers.

The Career Speaker Workshops run from September through April, where speakers are scheduled almost every other week during sixth period. All students, grades 9 through 12, are welcome to attend. Those with a six-period can receive a pass from the College and Career Office.

The average attendance for any particular speaker ranges anywhere from 15 to 30 students, allowing for a more personal experience during these workshops.

“This speaker series aims to expose, educate, and raise awareness regarding various career paths, industries, and professional opportunities once high school is over,” co-organizer and Intervention Coordinator Leah Winger said.

The workshop has hosted a variety of speakers including an entertainment writer, registered dietician, special effects make-up artist, realtor, publisher and business owner, singer and songwriter, engineer, construction business owner, LAPD officer, and a voice-over actor. 

During these workshops, speakers are asked to share information about their high school experience, how they chose their career path, what their job entails, other career options within their field, and any other information they feel is beneficial to share.

“This time [also] allows for questions regarding that particular career or even careers that are similar,” Winger said. “The speakers are all willing to answer questions in person and often provide their contact information for students to keep in touch and ask additional questions, allowing for networking opportunities with professionals now.”

As a whole, career workshops help students gain clarity and insight into the profession they are interested in and provide time for any burning questions they may have about their prospective career path.

Together, the AHA and the Intervention Department at GHC strive to provide continuous support to their students in discovering the right career path for them to pursue as they continue their journey after graduation.