As children, we all dream of being a prince/princess or the president of the United States. However, it is time to start deciding what our futures are going to look like realistically. High school is the prime time for teenagers to find out who they are and what they are most interested in. As college creeps up, it is never too early to start thinking about a career path.

The students at St. Dominic have intriguing career dreams that provide stability but also keep that “creative kid” energy they had when they were little. Sophomore Maddie Troesser is already taking steps to fulfill her incredible career path.

“I would like to be a pilot and/or aerospace engineer. The dream would be to become an astronaut, but I would love to just be either of those as well. I am hoping to start working on getting my pilot’s license next summer, and have started some of the online training courses. I also went to Space Camp in Huntsville at the US Space and Rocket Center this summer. I did the week-long Advanced Space Academy where I got to do three mission simulations and learn a lot about piloting and space,” Troesser said.

Junior Abby Ryan found her passion in high school by taking classes that interested her the most. The new Project Lead the Way Biomedical program has been a great way for Ryan to explore a new and expanding career in the medical field. 

“I want to be some sort of a surgeon when I grow up, because I have always enjoyed anatomy classes and dissecting things. I think it would be enjoyable, but the salary that would come with it is a great bonus. I have taken anatomy classes and the class Human Body Systems as an elective to help myself prepare,” Ryan said.

Senior Olivia Stransky has to start making decisions within the next couple months as college is just around the corner. Lucky for her, she knows exactly what she wants to do and where she wants to go.

“I have always wanted to be an athletic trainer because it keeps me close to sports which I don’t want to live without. I also absolutely love anatomy class and want to use that in my future. I’ve talked to multiple athletic trainers about their love for the career, the salary, and what school I need to go to for the best education possible. I cannot wait to study for my dream job at MIZZOU,” Stransky said.

Although deciding future plans can be extremely overwhelming, the endless options for career paths are very rewarding. Regardless of if you know what you want your career to be or if you are still deciding, be sure to take advantage of the many classes St. Dominic has to offer.