The Bloomfield Public Schools (BPS) School-to-Career Office recently hosted two Success Panels simultaneously at Bloomfield High School and Carmen Arace Middle School, bringing together accomplished professionals and alumni to inspire students to think intentionally about their future career paths. The theme of the event, “Turning Passion Into a Profession,” focused on helping students understand how personal interests and passions can evolve into meaningful careers.
At Carmen Arace Middle School, the panel was held in collaboration with the University of Hartford, highlighting the importance of partnerships in expanding career awareness for students. The panel featured University of Hartford students Brielle Mathis, Josais Cruz, and Lawson Correa along with professionals Jaquan Samuels and Sylvester Turner Jr. who represent diverse career fields.
The focus at Carmen Arace was to help 8th grade students see how their interests today can evolve into careers tomorrow. Panelists shared relatable stories about their personal journeys, including the successes, challenges, and growth that helped shape their paths.
Across both school sites, the panels successfully achieved their goal of inspiring students, providing relatable role models, and encouraging young people to begin thinking about their own career journeys. Through honest conversations and real-life experiences, students gained a deeper understanding of the possibilities that lie ahead when passion, perseverance, and purpose come together.
Bloomfield Public Schools remains committed to creating opportunities that connect students with professionals, alumni, and community partners who can help guide and inspire the next generation.