The economy may be in a downturn, but for the graduating seniors at Hidden Valley High School, hope for the future is strong. Students are aware of the lack of jobs due to the current recession, and though many companies are cutting back, they are confident that the economy will soon rebound. Undaunted by polls and forecasting, most have chosen career paths that reflect their interests and passions, and trust that jobs will be available after college.
For VMI-bound David Turner, civil engineering was a natural choice for a major because of his strong math skills and an interest in technology. Engineers have historically been in high demand, but if that isn’t the case when he graduates, he can use those skills to serve in the military.
Clay McGlamery’s interest in earth science influenced his decision to study geology at the University of Mississippi.
“I enjoy traveling and would love to work for an oil company, or maybe the United States Geological Survey,” McGlamery said.
Many have had hands-on training through programs offered at the Arnold R. Burton Center for Arts and Technology. Whitney Walton completed a teaching internship this past year, and had the opportunity to work in a third grade classroom at Oak Grove Elementary School. She has a strong interest in teaching, and spent her senior year working with children, an experience that confirmed her decision to study elementary education at Ohio State University.
Some students researched hiring projections and demographics as they considered fields of study. “Sales fields are wide open,” said John Hans, who plans to study business management at the University of Alabama. “I’d like to live and work in a metropolitan area like Washington D.C.”
After being sidelined with several sports-related injuries, professional healthcare intrigued Sterling Cupp. Working with athletic trainers and physical therapists influenced her decision to pursue a career as a Physician’s Assistant. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the healthcare industry shows the highest amount of growth of any other field with an additional three million jobs projected by 2016.
But statistics and projections haven’t been the deciding factor for all of the students.
“I think it’s important to choose an area you like – and a job will come,” believes Taylor Poindexter. “A lot can happen in four years, and I’m confident there will be jobs.” Her plan is to study Religion and Psychology at Mary Washington College, and one day she hopes to be the director of a non-profit organization.
Graduation is scheduled for 9:00 am, Tuesday June 9th, at the Salem Civic Center. Cave Spring, Northside and William Byrd will have ceremonies later that day at the same location.
“Given all the hard work and effort these students have put into the last 13 years, it will be fulfilling to see them finally achieve their goal,” said senior class sponsor Cindy Lawrence.
The Class of 2009 seems to have embraced the musing of Helen Keller: “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”
