Building Connections at Annual Science and Technology Breakfast
With one-third of St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) grads regularly pursuing post-secondary STEM programmes each year, events like the Science and Technology Breakfast provide invaluable opportunities for senior students.
The annual event occurred on November 19 in the SMCS Campeau Lecture Hall, packed with Grade 12 students and professionals from within the school community.
“The event was beneficial as it allowed me to engage with individuals who have been successful in the paths I hope to follow,” says Thomas Rebello, Grade 12, who is interested in industrial engineering. “Through my conversations, I gained strategies for approaching my studies beyond high school, key areas to focus on, and things to avoid. I think it is important to learn from people with more experience, especially in fields of my interest, and I found it inspiring to hear stories from alumni who were once in my position and are now successful in their careers.”
Originally organized by the late Frank Heijmans, beloved teacher and former head of the Science Department, the event exposes and connects Grade 12 science students with leading professionals in health, engineering, applied science, programming, technology, and business entrepreneurs. It provides an opportunity for students to meet with alumni and parents who have sacrificed their time for the benefit of our students.
“This event was a great opportunity for me to learn more about how to approach the next steps,” says Grade 12 student William Lewis who plans to pursue a career in engineering and physical and mathematical sciences. “The opportunity to talk to these successful people allowed me to open my horizons into many different fields within engineering.”
George Carayiannis, Grade 12, adds, “I feel this event was important for two reasons. The first was simply to listen to what the guests had to say and internalize the ideas and insights they were giving us. The second was to understand the wide array of careers that are available and to help us understand that there are so many career possibilities after high school.”
The event is designed for students to learn and talk with individuals currently working in fields of science that may interest them.
“Developing and forming relationships with mentors related to their area of interest is critical for our students as they work towards pursuing their dreams and goals in science,” says Kevin Toste, science teacher. “Having a mentor to guide them, offer advice, and provide opportunities for growth may allow our students to prosper as future leaders in their profession but also to be good young men in a chaotic and complex world.”
The goal of the Science and Technology Breakfast is for students to learn from others’ life experiences and gain some wisdom that may help them along their journey beyond the yellow brick halls of SMCS.
“My hope is that in a few years, our current students will be able to sit on the other side of the table, offering their expertise and experience to the next generation of SMCS students,” says Patrick Feghali, science teacher. “I am incredibly thankful for all of the mentors. They gave their time freely to help guide and encourage our students. The event would not have been possible without them.”
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