Jim Thorpe students learn about careers at annual event

Jim Thorpe Area High School students participated in the fifth annual ‘jtTalks’ on Thursday.

The all-day event, created by alumnus Christian Ferko, allows students to interact with Jim Thorpe alumni on their current interests and careers.

Ferko, who is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in theoretical physics at the University of Chicago, thought of jtTalks with his friends during a Christmas party. Initially, the event revolved around careers in the STEM fields, but ultimately expanded in other areas.

“We’ve expanded in the humanities and occupational therapy based on student feedback. This is a service for students, and we want to give them what they want,” Ferko said.

For the second year, some students participated in a mini mock trial. Before the trial, students were given background information on a case involving robbery and breaking and entering. Students were divided in half representing either prosecution or defense, and mentored by attorney Tom Nanovic and his daughter, Erin.

The mock trial concluded with a jury consisting of other alumni and students deciding the verdict.

“This mock trial not only adds to the humanities and social sciences aspects, it also gives the students to be interactive with each other and alumni in a different way,” Kim Ferko, one of the facilitators of jtTalks, said.

Ferko held a session on how Muslim history shaped Spanish language, architecture and culture. Other sessions included apoptosis research, engineering, photojournalism, women in STEM and cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity consultant Cody Mann led the discussion on the career opportunities in his field.

“I’m here to explain the core values behind cybersecurity,” Mann said. “Overall, this day gives students to learn anything is possible coming from Jim Thorpe alumni.”