It’s never too early to start planning for the future. That is the theory of some recent events at Southwest Middle School.

Thanks to the organizing efforts of Lynn Keenan, Southwest Middle School counselor, our middle school has made active participants of students in planning exactly what it is they want to do when they grow up. Assisting Lynn were Kim Danner, school social worker, who handled the post-event surveys and data, and Jim Munyer, the eighth-grade school counselor.

Exposing kids to different professions allows them to choose high school courses with a focus on the future.

Earlier in the year, eighth-grade students participated in Career Day. Working with the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce, Lynn recruited area professionals to speak about their careers, and about how they trained to get their current job. They also spoke honestly about the advantages and disadvantages of their career choice.

Students took a survey to determine their interests and then were allowed to listen to talks by professionals involved in their areas of interest. Typical jobs highlighted included chef, police officer, agri-business, cosmetology, engineering, industry, medical and business careers.

Next, the students spent a day at Riverland Community College, including both Albert Lea and Austin campuses. The students were exposed to instructors, students, and classrooms focused on the following career fields: nursing, cosmetology, criminal justice, welding, health science and simulation, carpentry, industrial tech, construction, electrician, collision repair, diesel, auto tech and massage therapy. Many of the demonstrations were “hands on” which was really fun and educational for the kids. Special thanks to area businesses — Mrs. Gerry’s, Culligan Water, Hy-Vee, Albert Lea Select Foods and Cedar Valley Services — for providing a bag lunch for each eighth-grade student. The school district is very fortunate to have this ongoing supportive relationship with the chamber and its members and Riverland Community College

Finally, students who scored in the 90th or higher percentile on the eighth-grade ACT EXPLORE test were invited to visit Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. The eighth-graders met with current college students who told why they chose Luther and answered questions about college life.

College students then led small group tours of the campus. Eighth-graders visited the athletic building, some academic buildings and a dorm room! Luther College very generously provided lunch.

By exposing students to different professions, kids can dream big and plan now to achieve those dreams.

Sally Ehrhardt is a member of the Albert Lea school board.