The Class of 2023 welcomed 22 alumni representing various industries, including law, education, technology, finance, performing arts, athletics, and more, to campus for Career Day on Monday, March 27. After an introduction in the Performing Arts Center, students convened in small groups for open discussion with the alumni. The annual event provided the soon-to-be graduates with valuable insight into what to expect after King, including personal and professional advice for living a fulfilling life.

In her keynote address, Annie Suffredini KLHT’03, Director for Career and Professional Development at Sacred Heart University for the Jack Welch College of Business and Technology, stressed the importance of exploring passions and interests beyond a major in college.

“Open yourself up to all the opportunities that lie within the university or college you're going to,” she said. “So many things will come your way that will redefine your path.”

Suffrendini prefaced the small-group portion of the day by encouraging students to utilize their current community to build a professional network. 

“Start collecting your dots to connect the dots,” she told the audience, noting that the alumni present may become invaluable resources later in life.

In breakout groups, alumni discussed their career paths with students and answered questions. 

Educator and children’s book author Valerie Bolling LHT’83 discussed the many benefits of honing literary skills with her groups.

“It was great to see all the different ways they like writing,” she said, adding that one student commented, “I’m here because I know no matter what I do, I’m going to need to write.”

Returning to campus brought back memories of their own senior experience for some alumni.

“I remember how much pressure I was putting on myself,” recalled Sonali Burns ’18. 

Dru Serkes KLHT’07 added that as a senior, he wished he knew, “everything’s going to change, and it’s going to be ok.”

The day concluded with a reception in the Upper School where alumni reconnected with each other and their former teachers—reinforcing a sense of belonging and pride in King’s commitment to excellence beyond graduation.

Steven Menking KLHT’06 noted that while the school has changed and updated its facilities over the years, the program’s core remains strong.

“Some of the main teachers I had, and looked up to, are still here,” remarked Menking, “helping the kids get ready for life in the ‘real world.’”

More about Career Day, including Alumni Bios, can be found on our website here.