On May 1st, 2025, the Boys & Girls Club of Clifton hosted its annual Career Exploration Day, offering local high school juniors a unique opportunity to explore different career paths. The event gave students the chance to step outside the classroom and into real workplaces, shadowing professionals, asking questions, and gaining insight into what it’s really like to work in a wide variety of industries.
From hospitals and law offices to media studios and banks, students got an up-close look at careers they might want to pursue in the future.
Learning by Doing: Job Shadowing Across Clifton
At JAG Physical Therapy, Clinical Director Lacey Burton mentored three students who were so inspired by their experience, they expressed interest in volunteering in the future.
In the legal field, Dominic Iannarella of Iannarella Law LLC welcomed two students and shared what it takes to build a successful legal career. Kate Hyde from Kennedys Law LLP guided five students through a tour of the Passaic County Courthouse and gave them a deeper look into careers in law and the judicial system.
Healthcare was another major highlight. Tania Manago, Assistant Director at Clara Maass Hospital, led 12 students through various departments, offering insight into the many roles available in the medical field, from patient care to hospital operations.
Exploring a Range of Careers
Juniors also had the chance to explore careers in finance, education, public service, media, and more.
Dante Liberti of Ameriprise Financial introduced three students to financial planning and the business world.
At Clifton Cable Channel, Station Manager Mike Solomon helped two students record their own segment, offering a hands-on experience in media and broadcasting.
Michael Wright at Lamart Corporation hosted three students and showed them what a career in safety and manufacturing looks like.
At the Clifton Health Department, Erika Shyroky and social worker Tom Sadowski gave two students a tour and insight into psychology and social services careers.
Seven students visited Valley Bank with Paul Smith and Michele Chambers, where they toured several departments and got a closer look at careers in finance and banking.
Carol Cavino, Associate Vice President of High School Admissions at Berkeley College, met with three students to talk about college life and help them think about their educational futures.
MaryJo Foster, an Early Education Director, guided five students through what it’s like to work in early childhood education.
Clifton Police Officers Kevin Collucci and Lance Gardner gave two students an in-depth view of law enforcement careers and the training involved.
Guest Speakers Offer Career Tips
In addition to job shadowing, students also got valuable advice from guest speakers who shared tips on preparing for the professional world.
Gina Bucci, Director of Human Resources at Taco Bell, spoke about interview skills—what to wear, how to act, and how to leave a strong impression.
Alexis Antico from Montclair State University’s Center for Writing Excellence talked about how to write a strong résumé and cover letter—important tools for any future job search.
A Powerful Day of Discovery
Career Exploration Day gave Clifton’s high school juniors the chance to see real workplaces in action and to start imagining where their own paths could lead. From courtrooms to classrooms and everything in between, students walked away with new ideas, fresh motivation, and a better sense of what’s possible.
A big thank you to all the professionals and businesses who made this day so impactful. With their support, the future is looking brighter for Clifton’s next generation.
