The New and Improved Career Center

The+New+and+Improved+Career+Center

Sukhdeep Kooner (12th), Editor

Since last year, the career center has been experiencing changes that intend to improve the way students go about handling college and career related questions and concerns. Alongside the new and improved center, Pitman has also hired a new adviser, Mrs. Kristen Cole, to oversee its operations.

As an anxious senior preparing for adulthood, I made an appointment with Mrs. Cole hoping she could ease my worries about the future. It’s fair to say she went above and beyond since I left her office with information regarding scholarships and online college classes I hadn’t known before.

Going on her ninth year as a school counselor, Mrs. Cole is ready and well-equipped to answer any and all questions students have. When asked what she enjoys most about her job, she replied, “I love empowering students to accomplish things they didn’t necessarily think would be possible. I also just love the energy that working with young people brings me. I often learn as much from teenagers as they learn from me!”

She has previously taught in schools, even Pitman, as a substitute teacher while she was in college working to obtain her Master’s in school counseling. Upon graduating, she was officially hired at Central Valley High School. She later spent a year at Mae Hensley Junior High before switching to Pitman. She said she had a great experience at both schools but moved to Pitman since it was closer to home and because her kids attend schools in the Turlock district.

Her love for Pitman stems from the fact that “the staff is extremely welcoming and kind. The spirit and culture is something I am excited to be a part of.” She undoubtedly has a strong sense of community and thanks the students for welcoming her with open arms.

However, she wants students to know that “I am extra support on top of what your regular counselor already provides. The career center is basically an information hub for all things college and career. We offer guidance for life after high school whether that be figuring out what school you should go to, what you should major in, what careers might interest you, etc.”

If that wasn’t enough to convince you to pay her a visit, you should also know that the career center can help you build resumes  and prepare for interviews.

Lexsie Limon, a senior here at Pitman, urges all students (especially fellow seniors) to take advantage of the career center’s services since, “Mrs. Cole is a huge help in showing websites that give specific college related information. She gave me great suggestions and informed me of upcoming college workshops that would benefit me as well. I’m glad I visited her!”

Make sure to follow the career center’s social media pages (@PHS_CareerCenter) to get constant updates regarding upcoming deadlines and workshop signups!

And if not, visit Mrs. Cole in person since “no question is too silly or simple. It is my job to help you”! All you have do is visit the career center during office hours and make an appointment. Similar to counseling appointments, you have to wait for Mrs. Cole to call you in.

Well friends, the career center is up and running smoothly. Make sure to go get all your questions regarding life beyond Pitman answered. Your future awaits you!