Last Tuesday in Marienthal, 50 students from Lycée Josy Barthel in Mamer had the opportunity to meet employers from various companies during a career orientation day. The aim was to guide students on their journey into the workforce by introducing them to professionals from different sectors who presented a variety of job opportunities and offered practical advice, including how to prepare effectively for job interviews.
As part of this ‘Orientation Week’, the school organised two days specifically for fifth-year students, offering a diverse programme with workshops and discussions. Students spent the morning reviewing their documents with teachers to ensure everything was prepared.
In the plenary session, five companies introduced themselves, before moving to separate rooms where students could explore specific interests, ask questions, and practise their introductions for future job interviews or internship applications, as explained by principal Gil Belling. At school, students are already being prepared for the workforce. However, it is crucial to take them out of their familiar environment and allow them to make initial contact with employers to see the process in practice, added principal Belling.
“Today, it is a privilege to be young, and orientation support is much more prevalent than in the past”, said Michel Welter, the owner of an electricity company participating in the initiative. Welter believes the focus of these days is to give students a true sense of what to expect in the professional world.
As many students are unfamiliar with how companies operate, these sessions offer valuable opportunities to demonstrate aspects like workplace dynamics, appropriate dress codes, communication, and the importance of first impressions. The initiative also aims to help students overcome their anxieties and instil more confidence and motivation to present themselves professionally to an employer.
Whether in a suit, shirt, or polo, the students dressed particularly well for the occasion, taking the opportunity seriously. One student expressed surprise at how well-prepared everyone was, noting the significant effort made to ultimately ensure they end up in the right job.
While students sometimes feel uncertain or unsure about their next steps, the experience of these sessions is helping them better navigate the professional world. Another student mentioned their interest in securing an internship, particularly in fields such as engineering or electrical work.
Each year, students at the career day are offered internships in various companies, and some even receive apprenticeship offers.
