Career Quest #2

December 2, 2016

Again, I really encourage you to do this if you homeschool! We have learned so much from these so far! I am already anticipating the next one in January! Just remember to keep your group limited to a small size so that it isn't too intrusive for the business.

Our first stop was CSA (Central Service Association). Prior to today, I had no clue what they did. Basically, they do the billing/collecting/processing for utility companies such as TEPA, Tupelo Lights/Water, etc. They talked to us about so many things: from computer programing/coding, servers, homeland security/terror threats, operating an entire operation from one's home... Here they are-about to enter the "secure" area. They were excited they had to wear visitor badges!

Have you ever wondered what a half million dollar computer looked like? Add to that the $750,000 for the software to operate it...and top that off with the fact it is no longer going to be used! Technology is definitely changing things. For example, this company has the technology for all the 100+ employees to work from home. They did this during the ice storm last year with no issues! Instead of the large computer in the other picture, they are converting to operating off of servers. 

Tupelo has some wonderful businesses! They have all been so eager to share with our kids!

Our second stop: Tupelo Small Animal Hospital. We learned about the educational requirements for vets and all of the varied job opportunities (the field is much broader than private clinics). Dr. King demonstrated the equipment he used. He even had Aidan be his assistant. 

He also shared all kinds of "treasures" he has obtained through the years (a huge hairball from a cat, large gall stones, a fishing lure that was removed from the lip of dog, etc.) Here is Fred. He came upon a site in which this dog had died from obvious maltreatment. He got the bones and uses them to show/educate. He said he tries to give "Fred" a good life!

He toured us around the hospital. This is the radiology room. They are looking at a sonogram of a female dog with puppies.We also visited the boarding facility.

Our third stop, the Little Popper. They demonstrated how they pop the corn and how they "flavor" the popcorn. They showed them how to make the caramel corn. They have over 50 flavors of popcorn! 

They let the children create their own M&M, Reeses Pieces, Carmel & Chocolate popcorn!

Here is the finished product.

Our next stop was Walker and Ungo Immigration Law Firm. She began by discussing the various fields of law practice. She really highlighted how law crosses a wide range of disciplines. She really engaged their interests by talking about patent lawyers. She also shared with us the bureaucracy and laws governing the immigration process. She explained the process of citizenship and even quizzed the students with questions from the test. Because of their specialization in immigration, they work with people from all over the world. 

This is the book that immigrants receive after becoming U.S. citizens.

Our last stop was Building Blocks and The Learning Skills Center. Building Blocks is a business that accepts donations of used hardware/household items. For example, instead of burning or trashing left over pieces of wood, you can donate them to this place. If you are replacing windows, doors, toilets, sinks....absolutely anything that is still usable, they will accept the donation. Or if you have a project you are working on and don't want to invest a ton of cash--look for the items you need. They had lots of paint (donated by Sherwin Williams) and just about anything else you were looking for the day we visited.  In return for a donation, they will provide you with a donation/giving receipt for your taxes. They use the profits from the store to fund the Learning Skills Center. They evaluate for learning disabilities and provide teaching and tutoring to those in need of the services.

While we were here, she shared a story about a lady who came in recently and was looking for materials to make all of her Christmas presents. She found everything she needed to make around 12 gifts. Her total cost: $8!

I have overheard the boys talking among themselves about places they have visited during these career quests. It is neat to see what hear what all they say. And we adults learn so much and enjoy these days just as much as the kids!!

Live a Meaningful Life!