Career Day chronicles: Inspiring futures, one person at a time

By Emma Hyder ’25

On Friday, May 1, 2025 Derby High School held a career fair for students to look into different career options and see what they like. It was a huge success with teens finding more about what options are available post high school. People from all sorts of occupations came to the fair to show kids what their future might hold. The U.S. Military was a huge hit, along with the firefighter table and cosmetology table. Students engaged in hands-on activities and asked thoughtful questions, gaining valuable insight into each profession. Many left the event feeling inspired and more confident about their future career paths.

Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: Cassie Silkoff ‘25 posing with the Army speaker she got from performing 65 push ups in front of a group. 
Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: Jayson Drayton ‘26 wearing the full firefighter gear looking into what his future might hold.
Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: A group of junior girls looking into being a juvenile detention officer. 
Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: Naszier Boyd ‘25 standing at the elementary education table talking with Irving School teacher Candy Lebel about all the fun there is to be had as a teacher. 
Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: Mason Izquierdo ‘25 performing push ups in hopes of winning a U.S. Army speaker. 
Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: A shot at the cosmetology table with some student work on display. 
Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: Emma DeSanty ‘25 showing the size difference with her fist and a butt sore. 
Photo by Emma Hyder ‘25: Sofia Rudus ‘26 putting on the firefighter gear. Does it fit her or her future career goals?

The career fair at Derby High School was a resounding success, offering students a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of career paths. With strong participation from professionals—including representatives from the U.S. Military, firefighting, and cosmetology—students were able to engage in interactive experiences and ask meaningful questions. This event sparked inspiration and helped many students feel more confident and informed about their future careers. We hope to have many more experiences like this at our school next year.