Park Ranger

Ms. Virginia Fowler, from Cowpens National Park, spoke to students today about careers in park service. Park Rangers work in a variety of fields including firefighting, human resources, historian, forest ranger, and anthropology. Clemson University offers a major in park services. A career in park services requires a four year college degree. The average starting salary is $15 per hour. There are job opportunities for high school students during the summer. Students should check the National Park Services web page at the end of the school year for summer job listings.

Make a Difference - Volunteer

If you are searching for job experience and something meaningful to do, then you should consider becoming a volunteer for Hospice of the Carolina Foothills. Hospice is a terrific organization that helps people in need who are very ill. Presently, more than forty students from Landrum volunteer for Hospice. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, pick up a volunteer packet from Ms. McCrimmon in the Guidance office. For more information about Hospice, click here.

"Shadow" a Career Professional

On February 2nd, students in the state of South Carolina have the opportunity to participate in National Job Shadow Day. This beneficial program enables students to "shadow" a professional in a career of his/her interest. To participate, students need to complete a permission form and return it to Guidance no later than January 15, 2010.Once the form is complete, students will receive a packet with instructions for Job Shadow Day. A one page essay and questionnaire must be filled out in order for the absence to be excused.

Interviewing 101

Mrs. Kristy Doty, Human Resources Specialist from Ch2MHill Engineering Firm, spoke to Mrs. Dover's English class about interviewing do's and don'ts. Mrs. Doty's tips included the following: dress appropriately for the interview, give a firm handshake, make eye contact, and do research about the company before the interview. She also said it is important for students to have appropriate voice mail messages on their cell phones and appropriate information on their facebook or myspace page, as companies will research these. We thank Mrs. Doty for her time.

Career Spotlight - Accountants/Auditors

Accountants and Auditors help keep public records accurate. They ensure that taxes are paid on time. They also prepare and analyze financial information. A four year college degree in accounting is required. The job outlook for accountants is strong and is expected to grow faster than the average. Typical average salary is $57,000.

Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook

Students learn how to save $

FBLA club members coordinated today's presentation. Sophia Banner, a Financial Specialist from Wachovia Bank, spoke about managing money, making wise credit choices and saving money for college. More than twenty students signed up for this presentation.

Anderson University

Anderson University Admissions spoke to students today about Anderson University. Located in Anderson, SC., Anderson is a private, Christian university offering a wide range of majors. Admission requirements include a 3.0 G.P.A. and 1000 SAT or 20 ACT. Anderson offers full tuition for all Palmetto Fellows. For more information, click here.

Chef Bunn

Chef Jack Bunn from Persimmons Bistro Restaurant, located in Landrum, SC, spoke to students about his career as a chef and restaurant owner. Chef Bunn, a native to the area, talked about the importance of loving your job. He discussed the pros and cons of working in the culinary industry and urged students to follow their passion. For more information on Persimmons Bistro Restaurant, click here.

Gardner Webb University

Gardner Webb University spoke to students about admissions, financial aid, and majors offered. The average G.P.A. an incoming freshman has entering Gardner Webb is a 3.5. Average SAT and ACT scores include 1020 and 21. Gardner Webb is a Christian university located in Boiling Springs, NC. Extracurricular activities and community service are also important criteria for admissions. For more information, click here.

Furman University

Furman University Admissions made a visit to Landrum today. Students learned about Furman admissions, financial aid, and majors offered. For more information about Furman, click here.

So what's the difference between a Vocational School, Community College, and College/University?

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a Vocational School, Community College, and College/University?

A Vocational School is an institution where you can earn a certificate in a career field.

A Community College is a type of school where you can earn a two year college degree. Community college's usually have open admissions policies and require a high school diploma or G.E.D.

A College is a school where you can earn a four year degree. Typically college's do not offer advanced degrees such as ph.d's.

A University is a school where you can earn a four year degree. Universities offer advanced degrees and have colleges or schools within them.

North Greenville University

North Greenville University (NGU) spoke to students today about their admissions policies, financial aid, and majors offered. For more information about NGU click here.

USC Upstate

USC Upstate admissions spoke to students about admissions requirements, financial aid, and majors offered at USC Upstate. The average G.P.A. an incoming freshman has entering USC Upstate is 3.5. Average SAT and ACT scores are 1017 SAT and 22 ACT. There is no application deadline, as USC Upstate is on a rolling admissions basis. However, it is in your best interest to apply early. Check out more info about USC Upstate here.

Career Cluster of the Week

Each week, a different career cluster will be spotlighted. This week's spotlight is on the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources cluster. Do you have an interest in working with plants or animals? This cluster focuses on the production, marketing, and distribution of agricultural commodities and resources. Examples of careers in this cluster include horticulturalist, marine biologist, forest ranger, wildlife biologist, dog groomer and land surveyor. For more information about careers in this cluster, click here.

Presbyterian College

An Admissions Counselor from Presbyterian College (PC) met with students Friday to discuss Presbyterian College admissions requirements, majors offered and other information about PC. For more information about PC, click here.

Coastal Carolina University

Coastal Carolina University is located in Conway, SC. Conway is only nine miles from Myrtle Beach. Coastal is a public four year university that offers a variety of majors. Some of the popular majors at Coastal include marine biology and professional golf management. There are more than 8,000 students at Coastal and the population is growing. The campus is currently expanding and will soon have more new facilities. The average grade point average entering freshman had in 2009 was a 3.3 and 22 ACT/1040 SAT.

One on One with a Landscape Architect

Mrs. Jimmie Lynn Dykes, of Wingo Designs, is a landscape architect and jewelry maker. She spoke to students about careers in both fields. A landscape architect develops plans to improve the astethic of the landscape. Landscape architects can work for individual clients who want to improve their yard or for corporations such as restaurants or hospitals.

Where did you study architecture?
I received a Bachelor of Art's in architecture from Clemson University and a Master's degree in landscape architecture from University of Georgia.

Did you have to do an apprenticeship or internship?
Yes. I was required to do a two year apprenticeship under a certified architect. All architects and landscape architects are required to do this.

What is the process like?
First I go to the client's home and talk with them to see what their needs are. I make measurements and then draw plans to blue print.

Are you responsible for planting the plants?
No. I draw up the plans only. A landscaping company will take care of planting.

What made you get into jewelry making?
I attended the John C. Campbell Folk School and took both silversmith and enamel jewelry making courses.

How long have you been making and selling your jewelry?
For five years now.

Where do you sell it?
At various art shows, galleries and on etsy.

Winthrop University

Winthrop University Admissions visited Landrum High School to discuss admissions requirements, financial aid, and other important information about Winthrop. More than twenty students attended this session. The average grade point average a freshman entering Winthrop has is a 3.6. The average SAT is 1100 and ACT is 24. Winthrop is located in Rock Hill, SC, about twenty minutes away from Charlotte. It is a public university. Tuition, including books and room and board is on average $18,000.

Arts, A/V Technology and Communications Cluster

Photography is a career within the arts, a/v technology and communications cluster. Students signed up to hear Mr. Wayne Culpepper, of Fisheye Studios, speak about careers in photography. Mr. Culpepper studied media communications at College of Charleston.

His tip to students interested in pursuing a career in photography - "take journalism or year book in high school." He said that this is "a great way to get experience taking photos." He also says that "you should carry a camera with you at all times because you never know when an opportunity will come to take a great photo."

Fisheye generously gave Landrum High School a book that they were the photographers for. We thank them. For more info on careers in photography, click here.

Career Spotlight - Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Sonographers use ultrasound equipment to examine and test a patient's specific area in their body. They may examine tissues, blood, and fetuses. While in high school, you should take anatomy and physiology, introduction to health sciences, and integrated business applications. These classes will help you prepare for classes while in college. This career requires a two year Associate of Science degree. Greenville Tech offers a degree in diagnostic medical sonography. The average median salary is $59,000. Due to the aging population, this is a fast growing career and is in high demand.

Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook

Practice for the SAT and ACT for free!

Do you need to practice for the SAT and/or ACT? Check out number2.com This helpful web site, created by two Ivy League graduates, helps you prepare for both tests without paying a dime. All you have to do is sign up with number2.com and you'll get plenty of preparation for both tests.

Governor's School for Science and Mathematics

There will be an information session for the Governor's School for Science and Math on Thursday, October 29th from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Olgetree Building, located on 300 North Main Street in Greenville, SC.
RSVP by Wednesday, October 28th to jesica@scgssm.org

Team Work through R.O.P.E.S.

Every year, 9th grade students are given the opportunity to participate in R.O.P.E.S. courses offered through Swofford Career Center. This fun-filled day gives students the chance to participate in a variety of courses that teach team work, leadership, and communication skills. Students have to work together as a team in every obstacle course.

Commercial Photography

Are you creative? Do you enjoy using a camera? Have you ever thought of a career in photography? Is your cluster of interest arts and a/v technology? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should attend this month's Lunch and Learn session with Mr. Wayne Culpepper of Fisheye Studios. Mr. Culpepper is a commercial photographer. His work has been featured in numerous publications. Sign up to hear Mr. Culpepper and to learn more about a career in photography. You can sign up in Guidance or with your teacher.

Milliken visits Landrum HS

Mr. Dan McBride, Senior Scientist and Invention Lead at Milliken Research Corporation in Spartanburg, SC, spoke with Mrs. Givins' 9th grade science classes about science. We thank Mr. McBride for his time. The presentations were spectacular! Interested in learning more about Milliken, click here.

Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Cluster

This cluster allows you to focus on interests in planning, management, and movement of people by providing and maintaining mobile equipment and facilities. On average, jobs within this cluster pay $19 per hour. Examples of careers within this cluster include auto mechanics, automotive repair and truck driver.

You can get more information about this cluster by attending the Lunch and Learn session scheduled on October 30th in the Career Center. Spartanburg Community College's automotive program will be at Landrum to discuss careers in the automotive industry. Sign up in your classroom or in Guidance with Ms. McCrimmon.

Mortuary Science

Mr. Chad Cartee, from the Wood Mortuary, spoke with Mrs. Johnson's biology class about careers in mortuary science. This career falls under the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics career cluster. To get more information on a career in mortuary science, click here.

Spartanburg Police Department

September's Lunch and Learn session was presented by the Spartanburg Police Department. Students learned about working on the bomb squad. More than twenty Landrum students attended. Thank you Spartanburg Police Department.

Upcoming College Visits

Admissions Counselors from Spartanburg Methodist College, Furman University, and Converse College will be at Landrum High School during the month of October. Students can sign up to attend any or all of these presentations. Sign up sheets are located in each class room and in the Guidance office. All students in all grade levels are encouraged to attend.

Check it out!

There are new resources in the Career Center. Check out the 2010 edition for the College Board Handbook and Majors book. There's also a new book on writing resumes and cover letters. All of these books are great resources in helping you prepare for your future.

Finding the right college

How do you find the right college for you? The first place to start is a search on the internet. SCOIS is a great site to use to research information about colleges. On this site, you can search colleges by location, size, major, and much more. You can learn about admissions information and financial aid, too.

Once you have compiled a list of schools in which you have an interest, you'll want to visit the college and see if for yourself. You wouldn't buy a car off the internet, so you wouldn't want to pick a school just based on its web site either. College tours are easy to set up. Larger universities and colleges offer campus tours on Saturdays, as well. Touring the school will let you know if its a good fit for you.

When your list is finalized it should include a safety school (a school that you will definitely get into), some schools within your reach (you meet the admissions requirements), and a dream school (that school that you would love to attend but aren't sure you can get in or not).

The sooner you start the search, the better. There's no time like the present. Remember to stop by the Career Center in Guidance for help in your search.

SAT/ACT

If you're planning to go to college, you need to take the SAT or ACT. You should take either test your junior year and again your senior year if you are not happy with your scores. To register for the SAT or ACT, you can pick up a packet in the Guidance office or register online. Here's the link to register online for the ACT. SAT is being offered on October 9th and ACT will be offered on October 24th. Visit the Career Center in Guidance for information on more upcoming test dates.

One on One Time with Career Professional

I interviewed Chris Jones, Graphic Designer and owner of Popcorn Initiative. Popcorn Initiative is a design firm located in Greenville, South Carolina.

How long have you been a designer?
Technically I guess 15 years or so. But I can say I really have been designing one way or another since I was about 10.

What made you decide to become a designer?
Honestly it wasn't a conscience effort. I was thinking about going into art or photography and by chance stumbled into a computer graphic design course in college. That's when graphic design was just starting to utilize computers as a tool. I had a natural knack for the utilizing the computer to create the design I wanted. From there, it just kind of developed into something I enjoyed, so I stuck with it and got my degree.

What do you like about your job?
Hmmm, I would have say the fact that every project is completely different. Every new project is like opening a birthday present, you never know what you are going to get, but you know you are going to love it in the end.

What's a typical day like?
Since I do everything from billing to design, my days are pretty diverse. Usually I start out by researching what's new in the world of design on the internet. A big part of being a designer is observing and understanding how our world of imagery and brands are changing around us. Then, I'll work on whatever project happens to be on my plate at the time. Sometimes that involves research or sketching and sometimes it specifically involves producing the project on the computer. By the end of the day, I'll usually have worked on 2-3 different projects to keep my views fresh and maybe throw in a little billing and paperwork. Oh and I can't forget the constant client interaction via email and phone.

What should high school students do to prepare if they are interested in this career?
If someone truly wants to be a good designer, they need to start paying attention to all the stuff that's designed around them. It's pretty much everywhere... magazines, television, signage, clothing tags, websites, etc. A lot of it's good, but a good portion of it is terrible. You need to observe and learn what makes something well designed or poorly designed. Most of the time a poorly designed piece is lacking a concept or is poorly executed. Just because you learn how to use a computer and the programs won't make you a good graphic designer. The computer is just a tool, like a pen and a piece of paper. There are a ton of great designers that can't use the computer at all.

Career Spotlight

This week's career focuses on Graphic Design. Graphic design falls under the Arts, A/V Technology and Communications Career Cluster. Graphic Designers use computer software programs to design logos, menus, annual reports, and other publications. They also design and develop web pages. Graphic designers work in advertising agencies or as an in-house staff member at a company or corporation. They also work in their own office. Most graphic designers attend community college and earn a two -year associate's degree in Graphic Design. Some study at a four year university and earn a Bachelor's degree. The median annual earnings for Graphic Designers in May, 2006 was $39,900. The job outlook for Graphic Design is positive. Employment is expected to grow 10 percent, as the demand for designers continues. (Source Occupational Outlook Handbook)