When foundational education intersects with real-world experiences, learning gains new depth and relevance. At Shanghai High School International Division’s Puxi Campus, the recent Grade 5 Career Day offered students a valuable opportunity to explore the professional world through the voices of their own parents. Nine parent volunteers representing a diverse range of professions visited the campus to share their career journeys, expertise, and industry insights. Through these engaging sessions, students not only broadened their understanding of various career paths but also began to consider how their personal interests might align with societal needs. More than a career showcase, the event served as an invitation to dream, reflect, and imagine the future.

Class 5-4 Robin’s father, a game designer, gave students a behind-the-scenes look at how popular video games like The Legend of Zelda are crafted. He highlighted how compelling storytelling, historical research, and scientific knowledge—particularly physics—come together in the development process. His message was clear: quality game design isn’t just entertainment, but a thoughtful integration of art, literature, and STEM. Class 5-6 Lionel’s father, a tech developer, complemented this keynote with a deep dive into game engine technology. He explained how underlying systems ensure fluid user experience, offering students a technical lens into the gaming industry. Together, the two speakers provided a comprehensive view of how imagination and innovation shape one of today’s fastest-growing sectors.

Class 5-8 Aidan’s mother, a biomedical scientist, described her work as creating “repair manuals for the human body.” Using engaging examples from genetics and disease treatment, she showed how breakthroughs in biomedical science are improving lives. Her discussion began with the small genetic differences between humans and primates and moved to real-world applications in medical technology. Class 5-9 Audrey’s mother brought students into the intricate world of neuroscience. With vibrant images of fluorescent-labeled neurons, she likened the brain’s neural networks to galaxies, showing how synapses form memories. Through her session, students glimpsed the wonders of the mind, learning that scientific discovery can be as vast and awe-inspiring as exploring the cosmos.

Class 5-2 Sam’s father, a structural engineer, used LEGO bricks to demonstrate how balance and design are essential in architecture. Students learned about the principles of load-bearing structures and how engineering blends creativity and precision. He also discussed the broader role engineers play in shaping cities and ensuring public safety. Class 5-1 Luna’s mother, together with Dr. Ma from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, focused on cultural heritage preservation. Beginning with Shanghai’s iconic Shikumen houses, they discussed how historical buildings are being revitalized to meet modern needs. A drawing activity invited students to imagine how cities could evolve while preserving their cultural identity—reminding them that architecture is not just about steel and stone, but about memory and meaning.

Class 5-5 Faye’s mother, an entrepreneur in the food industry, shared her experience launching a dining brand. She spoke about the challenges and rewards of starting a business, and how environmental consciousness and innovation can coexist in the culinary world. Her journey inspired students to think about how entrepreneurship can also serve the planet. Class 5-3 Charles’s mother, a policy advisor and think tank researcher, shifted the conversation to a global scale. Through a case study on climate change and extreme weather events, she encouraged students to see how careers can be a platform for addressing societal issues. Her talk underscored that professional paths can also be avenues for public service and global responsibility.

Class 5-7 Angela’s father, an economics professor, introduced students to the core ideas behind economic systems and financial literacy. He explained how economic forces influence industries and everyday life, and offered students practical advice on managing money and thinking critically about consumption. He also recommended beginner-friendly books to help students start building their understanding of economic thinking and decision-making.

Despite their different fields, each speaker conveyed a shared message: True professional success is rooted in passion, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Whether refining a game narrative, decoding the human brain, designing resilient buildings, or advocating for climate solutions, every story reflected purpose, challenge, and meaning.

Career Day also highlighted the strength of SHSID’s home-school partnership. Planning involved thoughtful coordination between teachers and parent volunteers to ensure every presentation was age-appropriate, engaging, and relevant. Parents designed interactive activities, while teachers prepared reflection guides and task lists to help students process what they had learned. Together, these efforts created a multidimensional learning experience that brought abstract career concepts to life. The school will continue to expand these initiatives, integrating family, school, and community resources to embed career education throughout the curriculum—from early exploration to long-term development.

Written by Teng Chen

Proofread by Chad Higgenbottom

Pictures by Minxuan Cao

Edited by Cong Luo

Reviewed by Luting Lu, Chenli Shen, Cong Luo