#PHSfit Career of the Day: Event Planner

Whether it is a wedding, educational conference, or business convention, meetings and events bring people together for a common purpose. Meeting, convention, and event planners coordinate every detail of events, from beginning to end. Event planners are involved from inception to debriefing. They consider the lodging and services that the facility can provide, how easy it will be for people to get there, and the attractions that the surrounding area has to offer. More recently, planners also consider whether an online meeting can achieve the same objectives as a face-to-face meeting. For example, they negotiate contracts with suppliers to provide meals for attendees and coordinate plans with on-site staff. They organize speakers, entertainment, and activities. They also oversee the finances of meetings and conventions. On the day of the event, planners may register attendees, coordinate transportation, and make sure meeting rooms are set up properly. Becoming an event planner doesn't require a bachelor's degree in hospitality management, but having one is definitely beneficial.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/meeting-convention-and-event-planners.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Medical Equipment Repairer

Medical equipment repairers, also known as biomedical equipment technicians (BMET), repair a wide variety of electronic, electromechanical, and hydraulic equipment used in hospitals and health practitioners’ offices. They may work on patient monitors, defibrillators, medical imaging equipment (X rays, CAT scanners, and ultrasound equipment), voice-controlled operating tables, and electric wheelchairs, as well as on sophisticated medical equipment that dentists and eye doctors use. The most common education is an associate’s degree in biomedical equipment technology or engineering. Those who repair less-complicated equipment, such as hospital beds and electric wheelchairs, may learn entirely through on-the-job training. Others, particularly those who work on more sophisticated equipment, such as CAT scanners and defibrillators, may need a bachelor's degree.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/medical-equipment-repairers.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Clergy

Regardless of which religion or subgroup you identify with, there is usually a leader who serves as the spiritual guide for the congregation. These rabbis, priests, imams, or ministers have completed formal training at a seminary, usually learning history and application of the religious laws and practices, as well as counseling skills. In addition to leading prayer services, religious leaders are frequently called upon to meet with congregants in some need, including to aid in lifespan changes like births, illness, and deaths.
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes212011.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Real Estate Agent

Real estate sales agents must be knowledgeable about the real estate market in their area. To match properties to clients’ needs, they should be familiar with local communities, including knowledge of the crime rate and the proximity to schools and shopping. Brokers and agents also must stay current on financing options; government programs; types of available mortgages; and real estate, zoning, and fair housing laws. Real estate sales agents need at least a high school diploma. Sales agents must be licensed. To become licensed, candidates complete a particular number of hours of real estate courses.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/real-estate-brokers-and-sales-agents.htm
http://www.realtor.org/realtororg.nsf/pages/careers 

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Secondary School Educator

Unlike elementary school teachers who tend to be developmental specialists and generalists with regard to content, high school teachers are often content specialists who have training in educational techniques and methods. If you are interested in being a high school teacher, be prepared to major in a specific subject area while also taking numerous education classes including a student teaching internship.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/high-school-teachers.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day - Air Force

Our country needs to be protected from enemies who use many different approaches to attack our way of life. One of the ways that our national defense is maintained is through the United States Air Force. Service in the Air Force can be achieved by tasks that go way past the obvious role of pilot. A successful Air Force requires servicemen and women who are insightful, technical, adaptable, and committed. The advanced training that comes with preparing for a career in the Air Force is easily relatable to many fields in the civilian world, and many training programs are transferable to college degrees, as well. Naturally, you would need to be physically fit in order to be successful in the United States Air Force.
http://www.airforce.com/careers/

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineering is one of the broadest engineering disciplines. Mechanical engineers research, design, develop, build, and test mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines. Nearly all entry-level mechanical engineering jobs require a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Mechanical engineering degree programs usually include courses in mathematics and life and physical sciences, as well as engineering and design courses. The programs typically last 4 years, but many students take between 4 and 5 years to earn a degree. A mechanical engineering degree program may emphasize internships and co-ops to prepare students for work in industry.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/mechanical-engineers.htm
https://www.asme.org/career-education/k-12-students?cm_re=Career%20Education-_-Left%20Navigation-_-K-12%20Students

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Management Analyst

Management analysts, often called management consultants, propose ways to improve an organization's efficiency. They advise managers on how to make organizations more profitable through reduced costs and increased revenues. Although some management analysts work for the organization that they are analyzing, most work as consultants on a contractual basis. Whether they are self-employed or part of a large consulting company, the work of a management analyst may vary from project to project. Some projects require a team of consultants, each specializing in one area. In other projects, consultants work independently with the client organization's managers. A bachelor’s degree is the typical entry-level requirement for management analysts. However, some employers prefer to hire candidates who have a master’s degree in business administration (MBA). In 2010, 28 percent of management analysts had a master’s degree.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/management-analysts.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Public Relations Manager

Public relations managers and specialists create and maintain a favorable public image for their employer or client. They write material for media releases, plan and direct public relations programs, and raise funds for their organizations. For public relations management positions, a bachelor's degree in public relations, communication, or journalism is generally required. Courses in advertising, business administration, public affairs, public speaking, political science, and creative and technical writing are helpful. In addition, some employers prefer a master’s degree in public relations or journalism. In 2010, one-fourth of public relations managers held a master’s degree.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/public-relations-managers-and-specialists.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Real Estate Broker

Real estate brokers are licensed to manage their own businesses. Brokers, as independent businesspeople, often sell real estate owned by others. In addition to helping clients buy and sell properties, they may help rent or manage properties for a fee. Many operate a real estate office, handling business details and overseeing the work of sales agents. To obtain a broker’s license, individuals need a specific amount of experience as a licensed sales agent, usually 1 to 3 years. They must also take additional formal classroom training. In some states, a bachelor’s degree may be substituted in place of some experience or training requirements.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/real-estate-brokers-and-sales-agents.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Materials Engineer

Materials engineers develop, process, and test materials used to create a range of products, from computer chips and aircraft wings to golf clubs and snow skis. They work with metals, ceramics, semiconductors, plastics, composites, and other substances to create new materials that meet certain mechanical, electrical, and chemical requirements. They also develop new ways to use materials. Materials engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in materials science or engineering or a related field. Employers also value practical experience. Therefore, cooperative engineering programs, which provide college credit for structured job experience, are valuable as well. Look for programs accredited by ABET.

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Postsecondary Educator

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and vocational subjects beyond the high school level. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books. Educational requirements vary with the subject taught and the type of educational institution. Most commonly, postsecondary teachers must have a Ph.D. However, a master's degree may be enough for some postsecondary teachers at community colleges. In technical and trade schools, work experience may be important for getting a postsecondary teaching job.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/postsecondary-teachers.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Physical Therapist

Physical therapists, sometimes referred to as PTs, help people who have injuries or illnesses improve their movement and manage their pain. They are often an important part of rehabilitation and treatment of patients with chronic conditions or injuries. Physical therapists provide care to people of all ages who have functional problems resulting from back and neck injuries; sprains, strains, and fractures; arthritis; amputations; stroke; birth conditions, such as cerebral palsy; injuries related to work and sports; and other conditions.Physical therapy programs usually award a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, although a small number award a Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) degree. Doctoral programs typically last 3 years; MPT programs require 2 to 3 years of study. Most programs, either DPT or MPT, require a bachelor’s degree for admission, and many require specific prerequisites, such as anatomy, physiology, biology, and chemistry. 
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/physical-therapists.htm
http://www.apta.org/PTCareers/Benefits/

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Physicist

Physicists and astronomers study the fundamental nature of the universe, ranging from the vastness of space to the smallest of subatomic particles. They develop new technologies, methods, and theories based on the results of their research to deepen our understanding of how things work and contribute to innovative, real-world applications. Most physics and astronomy graduate students have bachelor’s degrees in physics or a related field. Because astronomers need a strong background in physics, a bachelor’s degree in physics is often considered the best preparation for Ph.D. programs in astronomy. Undergraduate physics programs provide a broad background in the natural sciences and mathematics. Typical courses are classical and quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, optics, and electromagnetism.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/physicists-and-astronomers.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts perform research and gather data to help a company market its products or services. They gather data on consumer demographics, preferences, needs, and buying habits. They collect data and information using a variety of methods, such as interviews, questionnaires, focus groups, market analysis surveys, public opinion polls, and literature reviews. Analysts help determine a company’s position in the marketplace by researching their competitors and analyzing their prices, sales, and marketing methods. Using this information, they may determine potential markets, product demand, and pricing. Their knowledge of the targeted consumer enables them to develop advertising brochures and commercials, sales plans, and product promotions. Market research analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree in market research or a related field. Many have degrees in fields such as statistics, math, or computer science. Others have a background in business administration, one of the social sciences, or communications. Courses in statistics, research methods, and marketing are essential for these workers; courses in communications and social sciences—such as economics, psychology, and sociology—are also important.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/market-research-analysts.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Zookeeper

Many people like animals, but taking care of them is hard work. Zookeepers take care of wild animals in zoos and animal parks. They feed the animals, clean their living spaces, and work to keep them healthy. Zookeepers watch the animals to see if they are sick or hurt. Keepers need to watch and listen carefully to notice any changes in behavior. Keepers write detailed notes about each animal and tell a veterinarian if there is a problem. Many keepers go to college for 2 or 4 years. They often study biology, animal science, or some other science. Keepers also need to understand math so that they can measure food properly. Keepers need good writing and speaking skills so that they can take notes and talk to the public.
http://www.bls.gov/k12/nature01.htm

PSAT message for parents

The School Counseling Department will meet English 9, 10, and 11 classes in the library between February 8 and 16 to distribute the PSAT 8/9, PSAT, and PSAT/NMSQT to our students. Please ask your child to show you his or her score report. If you don't see the score report by February 16, then something is amiss.
When you review the score report, we ask that you not focus solely on the individual score, since students are not judged on their PSAT scores.
However, we ask that you pay particular attention to the skills insight that is provided on the report, and work with your child to improve the skills that have the greatest room for growth.
If, in the coming weeks (for juniors until the April 12 SAT) and months (until the next PSAT for sophomores and freshmen), the students focus on a particular skill set (like words in context or problem solving and data analysis), then they will see concrete improvement for the next time around.
Please know that the College Board has partnered with the Khan Academy to provide FREE SAT prep that is customized for students' own performance, and can be linked to their www.collegeboard.org account. As I indicated in an earlier email, please don't create multiple collegeboard.org accounts for students, as that will cause problems in 12th grade.



Lastly, the school counseling office would like to reinforce two ideas: while the PSAT provides good prediction for SAT performance, and SAT is one measure of college readiness, it is certainly not the only way to measure a students' readiness for college or career. There is no disputing that a student's performance in rigorous (within reason) coursework (such as Advanced Placement) provides a much more thorough insight into a student's readiness for college than any one test. Second, the ACT (www.actstudent.org) is an equal, if not more preferred by many, college admissions test, and students are encouraged to consider both tests in 11th and 12th grades. More colleges move to test-optional admissions every year, and every college accepts the ACT as willingly as they accept the SAT.

As always, don't hesitate to reach out to your child's school counselor if you would like to discuss post-secondary planning.

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Optometrist

Optometrists examine the eyes and other parts of the body related to vision. They also diagnose, treat, and manage diseases, injuries, and other disorders of the eyes. They prescribe eyeglasses or contact lenses as needed. Optometrists must complete a Doctor of Optometry program and get a state license. Doctor of Optometry programs take 4 years to complete after earning a four-year undergraduate degree.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/optometrists.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Occupational Therapist

Patients with permanent disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, often need help performing daily tasks. Therapists show patients how to use appropriate adaptive equipment, such as leg or knee braces, wheelchairs, and eating aids. Patients can function independently and control their living environment by using these devices. Some occupational therapists work in educational settings with children one on one or in small groups. They evaluate disabled children’s abilities, modify classroom equipment to accommodate certain disabilities, and help children participate in school activities. Occupational therapists need a master’s degree from an accredited occupational therapy program.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/occupational-therapists.htm
http://www.aota.org/Consumers.aspx

#PHSfit Career of the Day: Photographer

Photographers use their technical expertise, creativity, and composition skills to produce and preserve images that visually tell a story or record an event. Most photographers use digital cameras instead of the traditional silver-halide film cameras. Digital cameras capture images electronically, so the photographer can edit the image on a computer. Images can be stored on portable memory devices, such as compact disks, memory cards, and flash drives. Once the raw image has been transferred to a computer, photographers can use processing software to crop or modify the image and enhance it through color correction and other specialized effects. Photographers who edit their own pictures use computers, high-quality printers, and editing software. Although formal education is not required for most photographers, many take classes or earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field, which can improve their skills and employment prospects.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/photographers.htm

#PHSfit Career of the Day: School Counselor

School Counselors are responsible for the planning and implementation of a comprehensive program that meets the academic, career, personal, and social developmental needs of their specific school population. School Counselors are in elementary, middle, and high schools. They conduct individual and group counseling sessions, classroom lessons, and plan school-wide programs like the #PHSfit Career of the Day. They also consult with teachers and administrators to help them meet the students' needs more effectively and efficiently. School Counselors must show patience, skill, and wisdom with their population, and should also be able to accurately interpret data in order to put their resources to best use when meeting the needs of all students. Becoming a school counselor requires a master's degree, beyond a four-year bachelor's degree in a human services major.
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Community-and-Social-Service/School-and-career-counselors.htm
http://schoolcounselor.org/content.asp?pl=327&sl=341&contentid=341