PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Vocational Training School held a successful introductory 'Dress for Success' day on Wednesday, February 4th, 2015, organized by the Career Guidance Counselor: Ms. Ashayna Nisbett & Business Administration teacher, Ms. Anita Facey. Students were in high anticipation of this event. Most of the students came dressed in the attire they felt depicted the careers they aspire. Teachers and fellow students were amazed by the well-chosen attire of the participating students who dressed as chefs, carpenters, mechanics, business persons, nurses, teachers, police officers, music producers and technicians, to name but a few.
Classes continued as scheduled but were visited for a few minutes by the Career Guidance Counselor, and her Student Assistant for the Day, Stephanie Arnaud, to discuss the attires worn. Each participating student in the event was questioned about her or his attire: What career are you depicting today and why do you think you are or are not dressed appropriately for that career? Fellow class mates also provided constructive criticism.
A 'Most Appropriately' dressed student for each class was chosen, based on set criteria. From these winners, a male and a female overall winner went with the prize: 2nd Form Student Jaron Hyde, dressed as a Chef and 4th Form Student Farida Fleming, dressed as Front Desk Employee at the St. Maarten Medical Centre were the overall winners. Farida indicated that the "'Dress for Success' was a successful day. It helped me to think about my career. It helped me to feel like I am actually working", she said.
Eric Johnson a 4th Form Carpentry student was dressed as a Carpentry Employee at the Ministry of VROMI. He too and almost every student commented positively on the event. He stated that the school should do events like this more often. According to him, events like this one do not only allow the students to get a better idea of the career they aspire but of the choices they should make as well.
The cooperation of both students and teachers contributed to the success of the event. Man and Society teacher, Mr. Williams commented that "there was a positive response [to the event]. Students conducted themselves in a proud and responsible way". 2nd Form student Shemar Burton dressed in a formal suit along with accessories that depicted a Boxing Manager/Promoter, stated that the students showed the school what they are about and what they want to be in the future.
This was the first event of its kind as part of the Career Guidance Program for this School Year. The St. Maarten Vocational Training School prepares students for immediate transition into the 'World of Work'. More events like this are slated to take place before the end of the School Year. You're welcome to visit and like our Facebook Page: SMVTS.
