Student Takes Entrepreneurial Bite out of Big Apple at Rachael Ray Studio

When junior Stephanie Stirm started the career mentorship class at the beginning of the year, she never expected an opportunity to go to New York City and visit the Rachael Ray Studio. 

Once enrolled in the program, Stirm researched local interior designers and told her Consumer Science Teacher Jill Merz that she wanted to work with an understudy.

Stirm connected with Pamela Bayer Interiors of Hudson to volunteer five hours a week at the firm to hone her interior design skills. 

The mentorship required 40 hours for completion, but Stirm acquired 100 hours and landed permanent after-school employment with the designer.

“The career mentorship class allows students to find a mentor in their anticipated career field and gain first-hand experience with members of the community who can offer experience and expertise in a career field,” said High School Principal Kathy Thomas.

Just recently, Stirm had the opportunity to go with Bayer to New York City on a client visit to the Rachael Ray Show.

“I learned a lot about the business end of interior design,” Stirm said. “In addition to the creative aspect of the profession, I realized it requires a lot of planning and listening to what the client wants. I also learned that I can start my own business from the ground up and be my own boss. My experience definitely confirms I want to be an interior designer before I get to college.”

The career mentorship course is designed for students who want to explore their future careers seriously. Students and business professionals looking for more information may call Consumer Science Teacher Jill Merz at 330-689-5216 or email her at st_merz@smfcsd.org.