USM Launches Inaugural Career Day

Although the school has held resumé and job-writing workshops for many years, this is the first year it was held during the school day as part of the Upper School advising curriculum.

A firm handshake, sustained eye contact, and engaged body language are not complicated skills, but they still need to be practiced—and they can make the difference between getting the job or not. USM hosted its inaugural Career Day in September 2025, which was designed to teach those valuable skills and many others.

The concept was not new—a similar, opt-in career and resumé workshop had been held annually for many years as part of the school’s Internship and Shadowing program. But this was the first year that it took place during the school day and was a requirement for all freshmen, sophomores, and juniors (many seniors had already completed the workshop in previous years).

The day featured tailored instruction for each grade level. Ninth grade students circulated throughout the Upper School with their advising groups and listened to outside speakers who represented various different fields and industries.

Sophomores and juniors, meanwhile, spent the day developing and polishing their resumés and practicing job interview techniques. Students examined sample resumés and identified their existing skills that would be valuable to include on a resumé. Many students were able to highlight their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities, which they gained through their school work or extracurriculars. Volunteers, including parents, faculty, and staff, circulated to provide assistance when students had questions or needed advice. 

Students also participated in mock job interviews with volunteers to practice using appropriate nonverbal skills, and learned how to promote themselves and their experience in an employment setting. The day’s activities were led by Julie Gilpin, USM trustee and parent, who has over 20 years of experience in human resources and recruiting, and Susan Zarwell ’87, assistant head of Upper School. Gilpin also gave a presentation to students, sharing practical tips on workplace etiquette and expectations.