CVMS Eighth Graders Explore Career Paths at Professional Fair

Eighth graders at Chestnut Valley Middle School heard from local professionals across six industries last week, following a survey Assistant Principal Seth Siegel conducted to gauge student interest.

An esthetician, barber, dental hygienist, police officer, car salesman and business owner led sessions with students. Esthetician Daisy Avalos Lopez stressed professionalism and punctuality, noting that social media drives client acquisition. Officer Bhagwandeen of the Town of Wallkill Police Department outlined the benefits and hazards of law enforcement. Dee Sonnadarage, a sales consultant at Middletown Honda, described the appeal of sales work for people who enjoy interaction and automobiles. Sonnadarage manages the dealership's social media.

Brian Baker, owner of Formula H Motorworks in Middletown, started the business 40 years ago with two partners and now operates it alone with eight employees. "For me, it's a passion, not a job," Baker said. The owners of Bogey Barbers — Ricky Blendz, Trav Taperz and Saint Blasie — demonstrated how they use appointment apps and maintain shop standards. Sonia Vasquez, a dental hygienist at Brookside Family Dentistry, said she values patient interaction and preventive care.

Pine Bush High School counselors attended the event and provided information about career pathways.