In 2019, the SOCSD Family Engagement Center launched a mentoring program to match students with local professionals working in their fields of interest for career exploration. Since then, more than 20 professionals from the fields of finance, broadcast media, human resources, law enforcement, science and marine engineering have stepped up to volunteer, including Phelps Hospital Director of Clinical Laboratory Operations Carol Pileggi.
Pileggi partnered with Jeremy, a high school student interested in phlebotomy, earlier this year. They met virtually to discuss education, internships and certification requirements and other laboratory-based career options. Pileggi emphasized that technical skills alone are not enough to be successful. “Teamwork is a critical part of our job,” she advised.
“We are grateful for Ms. Pileggi’s willingness to support our students and wish Jeremy all the best as he continues his hard work to meet his personal goals,” said Executive Director of Pupil Personnel Services Karen Tesik, Ed.D. “Building partnerships is critically important to ensuring the success of our students as they prepare for their next steps after graduation. The FEC is another platform through which we can support students in becoming college- and career-ready.”
Interested in getting involved for the 2021-22 school year? Mentors and internship hosts are needed for Tappan Zee High School students involved with the Science Research, Senior Seminar, Computer Science Capstone courses and robotics team (SO BOTZ), as well as younger students interested in career exploration. Learn more by contacting FEC Coordinator AJ Walker at (845) 680-1059 or awalker1@socsd.org.
