The new department head of STEM Mrs. Melissa Cacioppo is in charge of the FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) club and senior internship program. Both of which are known to help students after college as they explore careers in business or experience in their intended field.
Q: How can FBLA open opportunities to students for career options? Does networking take place at conferences?
A: Opportunities are available for students to develop leadership skills through workshops, seminars, and competitions. Students may hold an officer position or take the chairperson role in a community service activity. Networking opportunities can occur anywhere. At the conferences there are judges from the business community along with educators. Opening up a discussion can lead to opportunities that you didn’t know even existed.
Q: As the new advisor for FBLA, what are your goals for this year?
A: This year I would like more students to be aware of the club and join but not just for the competition. FBLA is about community service as well. We did have our fundraiser with NHS which was a great community event and I would like to complete another community event in the spring.
Q: How can we make FBLA more inclusive?
A: I am currently in contact with the Network of Executive Women in Milford. I would like to bring in guest speakers to the business classes to discuss roles in the business community.
Q: Would learning about business be useful to any students future? If so, why?
A: Business is everywhere no matter what career or job you choose. We all buy goods and services to satisfy our needs and wants. Personal finance is also a fantastic course for anyone to take and soon every student will need to take it.
Q: What are the benefits of the senior internship program?
A: The hands-on experience is unlike anything students can learn in the classroom. Students not only discover what they like, but more importantly what they don’t like. Students can make connections for summer jobs, references, and future internships.