TJ Students Get a Taste of the Real World

Sixteen local professionals representing various walks of life spoke to eighth grade students Tuesday at  as part of the school's first ever Career Day.

The program, which TJ would like to make an annual event, was created by guidance counselors Marisa Heluk, Judy Nygren and Dennis O’Neill, in an effort to get students thinking about their career paths from an early age.

“Opening a student’s eyes to careers early in life provides them a unique opportunity to set attainable goals for their future and begin to explore professions that they are passionate about,” Thomas Jefferson principal Sherrie Galofaro said in a statement.  “Our goal as educators is to show our students that through hard work and dedication anything is possible.”

Career Day speakers offered students insight into a diverse array of careers from police officer to professional chef.  The day's keynote speaker, Assemblywoman Connie Wagner -- herself a former high school guidance counselor -- urged the eighth graders to take an active role in their future through education.

The appearance of New York City Firefighter Vincent DeGennaro, a Thomas Jefferson graduate, was a highlight for the students. 

“It is an honor to have the opportunity to give back to my hometown and help inspire the next generation of Fair Lawn students,”  DeGennaro said.

The guest speakers for Tuesday's Career Day included:

, Accountant and former Fair Lawn Mayor

Jennifer Kleinman, Attorney

Judith Migiaccio, Health Officer/Director Borough of Paramus

Matthew Cahn ESQ, Vice Principal of

Vincent DeGennaro, New York City Firefighter

, Author

Sgt. Richard E. Schultz,

Ken Sorower, Architect for RSC.

Jesse Demers, Strength and Conditioning Coach for the New  York Islanders 

Paul Rosengren, PSE&G Spokesman

, Chiropractor.

Evan Bragin, R.N.

Jason Raser, Trauma Marketing Manager at STRYKER.

Joel Scheinzeit, Professional Chef

Jessica Snell, Chemist for Johnson & Johnson

Myra Rosenblatt, Financial Planner