Young people today have an amazing range of career choices. While in high school, many students are encouraged to pick a career path and work toward that goal. The Pleasant Valley High School's Future Business Leaders of America offered students in grades nine to 12 a glimpse of career possibilities by hosting a panel of professionals to speak at a recent assembly.

Members of the panel were Diane Siani, PVSD assistant supervisor of Special Education; Jim Ertle, owner and vice president of Ertle Subaru; Rosemary Brown, Pennsylvania state representative; Susie Barley, ESSA Trust and Bank corporate secretary; Jim Mannello, owner and publisher of West End Happenings; Linda Salas-Mamary, occupational therapist; Joanie Loveless, real estate broker; Honi Gruenberg, contract negotiator for Oracle; Kate McNally, assistant sales director for DeSales University; Jim Becker, president and CEO of Access Office Technologies; and Monica Kotzmann, PVSD assistant business manager.Two members of the panel were present through Skype. Anthony Siani, a U.S. Army warrant officer, is currently stationed in Egypt. He always dreamed of someday being a Black Hawk helicopter pilot and is now living his dream. Shannon Behmke is a Peace Corps volunteer in Peru.Some of the advice the panel offered:• "Look for a college that offers courses in your career choice but suggests going to a two-year college to earn your general education classes. Volunteer in your field whenever you can," Diane Siani.• "Networking is important. It's not what you know but who you know. And know your politicians," Jim Ertle.• "Don't close your eyes to anything," Rosemary Brown.• "Never be afraid to try something new. Always challenge yourself. Give your time. Volunteer and network whenever you can," Susie Barley.• "Stay flexible," Jim Mannello.• "Enjoy high school. You've got time. The job will find you," Kate McNally.• "You may earn a degree in one thing and end up in a different career. When taking subjects in college, diversify and always keep your options open," Jim Becker.• "Pick a career. You never know what career will pick you," Monica Kotzmann.FBLA adviser Melissa Ruschak planned this event because she wanted students to hear firsthand about career experiences."I felt it was a successful presentation that helped students gain knowledge they can't learn in the classroom. The program was such a success, I plan on having two presentations next school year," she said.