Senior Skills Day helps get Heights students ‘future-ready’

Submitted by Hamilton Heights School Corporation

Hamilton Heights High School’s Class of 2027 took a meaningful leap toward life beyond high school during the district’s second annual Senior Skills Day, a hands‑on, fast‑paced morning designed to equip every senior with essential career, financial, and real‑world life skills.

The mandatory event brought together educators, local employers, community partners, and university representatives to help students prepare for their next chapter whether that path leads to enrollment, enlistment, or employment.

Dressed in professional interview attire and carrying hard copies of their resumes, seniors rotated through a series of interactive sessions focused on practical readiness:

• One-on-one Mock Interviews & Resume Review: Students met with local hiring managers for real‑world interview practice and received personalized feedback to strengthen their resumes and communication skills.
• Professionalism Panel: A cross‑industry panel featuring leaders from higher education, military branches, local government, non‑profits, and private business offered candid insights into workplace expectations and career pathways.
• Dress for Success: Through demonstrations and hands‑on activities, students learned to distinguish between business casual and business formal attire – even practicing how to tie a necktie.
• Ethical & Responsible AI Use: Indiana University Kokomo and CIESC guided students through appropriate and responsible use of artificial intelligence in college and workplace settings.
• Adulting 101: Seniors practiced foundational life skills including check writing, understanding Social Security, and emergency preparedness.
• Traffic Stop Awareness: Local law enforcement provided practical guidance on safety protocols and expectations during traffic stops or accidents.
• Financial Awareness & Responsibility: Students learned how to read paystubs, understand gross vs. net pay, budget personal expenses, and plan for financial independence.

“Senior Skills Day is all about giving our students the confidence and real‑world tools they need to navigate adulthood whether their next step is enrollment, enlistment, or employment,” said Jessi Cantlon, Director of School Counseling and Reaching New Heights Coordinator. “The maturity and professionalism our seniors displayed throughout the morning was outstanding. Multiple business partners commented on how impressed they were with our students, and that makes us really proud.”

Local business partners praised the students’ preparation and engagement:

“It was a lot of fun, and I was very encouraged by the preparedness and enthusiasm of the students that showed up.” – David Speckman, WestPoint Financial Group

“We had an amazing facilitator, and I loved getting to know the other professionals on the panel. It was very rewarding to share our experiences with the high schoolers. I especially loved it when they personally thanked us at the end, often with handshakes, as that shows professionalism!” – Mimi Bergman, One Mind

Students also shared how meaningful the experience was:

“The mock interview was very helpful, and also being able to pick the minds of these successful people.” – Will DeStefano

“I found it very helpful to learn what I should do when I’m pulled over and what I should expect in an interview.” – Hannah Dent

Hamilton Heights High School extends its sincere appreciation to all participating business partners, community volunteers, guest speakers, and university representatives. Their time, expertise, and sponsorship made Senior Skills Day 2026 a resounding success and an invaluable experience for the Class of 2027.