Twenty-two high school juniors participated in Career Shadow Day on April 8, organized by the Islip High School Business Department, enjoyed time spent in the local community and helping them make important career decisions.

Prior to the event, students completed applications and chose career fields of interest to them. Proper business dress and etiquette were also discussed in advance. Finally the big day arrived, and the juniors spent the morning hours shadowing professionals in various careers at businesses including Beehive Salon, East Islip Animal Hospital, Sports and Fitness Performance, Three Peaks Physical Therapy, Steve’s Auto Body and the Suffolk County Police Department.

After the students returned to the high school, they excitedly shared their experiences with each other. They also wrote thank you letters to their mentors, showing genuine appreciation for the time and effort the professionals gave in helping the students to explore future careers.

“I learned so much about being a vet,” said Aja Harper, who visited East Islip Animal Hospital with three other juniors on Shadow Day. Added Loraine Alvarez, who also shadowed at the hospital, “I have a new appreciation for helping animals.”