Shonto teens inspired by Career Day

By Sararesa Begay
Diné Bureau

SHONTO — This year's Shonto Prep Tech High School's career day was a "mind-blowing" experience for sophomore Nizhonie Watson.

"Students should take advantage of (career day)," said Watson who is originally from Cow Springs, Ariz. "(We) learn about colleges in Utah. I've made my mind set on going to college."

Ginny L. Evans, the high school's academic counselor, organized this year's career day with invited speakers from organizations such as the Navajo Generating Station-Salt River Project, the Coconino County Community College-Page Campus, National Park Service, the Crownpoint Institute of Technology, Peabody Coal, The Gallup Independent, local law enforcement and several Utah colleges.

"I'd like the students to be exposed to a variety of people and professions," Evans said, adding that she wants each student's unique interests to be "teased"and enhanced. "I want to spark an interest ."

"I think it's inspiring," said sophomore Franchesca Dougi. "It makes us kids think about school."

Dougi, a Kaibeto resident, said she enjoyed the Crownpoint Institute of Technology presentation because she has an interest in studying culinary arts.

"It's a good learning experience for people to find out where they want to go after they graduate from high school," said sophomore Olin Benally.

Benally who on the high school football team said that he enjoyed the National Park Service presentation, and may attend Din College or a college in Utah.

Senior Samuel Jumbo was interested by the law enforcement presentation, and he believes he's likely to become a welder or attend college.

Jumbo added that he was fascinated by the Peabody Coal presentation because the representative talked about "the machines, and what they use to process the coal."

Sophomore Julio Sombrero said he learned more different colleges and Utah universities during this year's career day. He added that he may attend Din College, and wants to study to become a teacher.

"I think career day is important," said Barbara Begay, a school board member. "A lot of times the kids aren't too aware of what the future might hold. This gives them a means of planning."

Begay, a retired educator who holds a master's degree in elementary education, retired from the Shonto school system. For 10 years she taught Navajo Studies that includes teaching the Navajo language, culture, philosophy and government.

Vaughn Salabye, a social studies teacher, said that he "overheard school staff members say 'this is the best career day they've been to at any school.'"

"I felt the power and enthusiasm among the students," Salabye said. "The extended time each student had, gave them opportunities to ask questions. We should do it again."

There are more than 135 students, and about 20 teachers on-staff, according to Evans. The Shonto school was created more than eight years ago and this year is the first year in their current, brand new building.

Lastly, Watson shared some academic advice for his peers. "I want to tell all the students out there, take advantage of school, get involved and get involved in sports."

Sararesa Begay can be reached at venisondine@hotmail.com or by calling 505-371-5443.