On March 20, Lake Oconee Academy’s high school campus was full of opportunity as students participated in a dynamic Career Day designed to connect classroom learning with real-world pathways for Upper School Students.
Students were invited to sign up for a variety of breakout sessions led by professionals representing a wide range of industries. From public service and aviation to business and beyond, each session offered students a firsthand look into potential career paths and the experiences that shape them.
The event created meaningful opportunities for students to engage directly with professionals, ask questions and gain insight into the skills, education and mindset needed to succeed in today’s workforce. John Honea from Olde South Design Studios and parent of a LOA alum shared his motivation for being part of the day, “I wanted to participate in Career Day because I believe it’s important for students to see all the possibilities in front of them,” Honea said. “In the field of architecture, there are so many branches and paths within this single field a student could choose. I want to help students feel more confident about their future and realize all the different opportunities they have.”
Greene County Sheriff Donnie Harrison also spoke with students, offering a perspective rooted in service and leadership. “It’s an honor to spend time with these students and talk about careers in public service,” Harrison shared. “We need young people who are willing to step up, lead and make a difference in their communities. Opportunities like this help plant that seed early.”
For students, the experience was both inspiring and eye-opening. Rhys Postlmayr, a ninth grade student interested in pursuing a career in aerospace, attended a session led by pilot Ryan Sanders. The session gave her a closer look at a field she hopes to enter one day. “Mr. Sanders’ presentation was outstanding and I enjoyed it thoroughly,” Postlmayr noted. “He shared not just the positives of his job, but also the challenges and how he overcame them. I especially appreciated this because many people will just try and show the positives, but he was honest and said that becoming a pilot is difficult and requires much skill. Overall, I learned a lot and I’m grateful to Mr. Sanders for taking his time to visit us. As a person who aspires to have an aerospace career, the presentation gave me a realistic view on what that type of job would be like and how to get there.”
Throughout the day, classrooms were filled with conversation, curiosity and connection as students explored possibilities for their future. With a strong turnout across sessions, Career Day proved to be a valuable experience for both students and speakers alike. Greene County Recreation Department Director Pete O’Neal summed up the day perfectly when he told his audience, “Remember to listen to your heart, and choose a career that truly makes you happy, if you do that than a good life will surely follow.”
By bringing professionals into the classroom, Lake Oconee Academy continues to provide students with meaningful, real-world connections that support college and career readiness, helping them envision not only what they can achieve, but who they ultimately can become.