Students Participate in “Dress Like Your Dream Job” at HPHS

Jayra A.Jayra A., an aspiring pediatrician, sported a lab coat and the ID badge she wears to a science and medicine program at Columbia University that she has attended since middle school.

Halloween came early this year at HPHS, when students came to school in a different kind of costume. To begin the conversation on aspirations and what it takes to realize them, CYD invited students to Dress Like Your Dream Job. The clothes were just the beginning. Students also had to answer a series of questions about their future jobs, including what education and training they would need and what their responsibilities would be like.

From an aspiring teacher to a future Pixar animator, the participating students showed up dressed for work and ready to talk in detail about their jobs. Prizes were awarded based on creativity, knowledge, and execution, and three winners (pictured) went home with Chipotle gift cards. One student had thoroughly researched the training she would need to become an FBI behavior analyst, just like her favorite character on Criminal Minds.

Carol C.Carol C. dreams of becoming a Pixar animator. She knew that animators study anatomy so they can accurately represent the way human bodies move. Carrying a portfolio of her drawings, she wore jeans that she decorated herself.

CYD College and Career Advisor Gabrielle Lozano, who planned the event, said, “If you can see it, you can be it! Most of the participants were sophomores and juniors, who are already determined and passionate in their goals. Dressing up was fun and it’s more meaningful than just looking at photos of professionals at work. If a student can try on the role then they can feel it for themselves, and that becomes the first step. And we know that now they also have a lot of information about the specific paths they will need to take in their careers. The students were so excited about this, and they did a great job.” Lozano looks forward to building relationships with these students and connecting them with opportunities to make sure that not only can they see it, they can be it.

Alexa P.How does a school psychologist dress? Alexa P. wore her confidence and discussed learning disabilities and IEPs, showing that she was well versed in the field.

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