In the month of March, we honor the accomplishments and sacrifices of women, both throughout history and in our communities. To celebrate Women’s History Month, Francis Lewis High School hosted a career panel on March 28 featuring thirteen women mentors from diverse professional fields. These women were invited to share their career journeys and the experiences that led them to where they are today.

Students were divided into smaller groups to allow for more personalized, one-on-one conversations based on their career interests. Depending on which session they signed up for, students were placed with mentors in those specific fields. This structure allowed for open dialogue, deeper connections, and more meaningful interactions. The event concluded with a group discussion where all participants came together to hear closing advice from the mentors, who offered reassurance and encouragement as students considered their futures.

The purpose of the event was to give students a deeper understanding of the unique challenges women often face in their careers. It was an emotional and powerful conversation that resonated with many attendees. Hearing about the obstacles these women had overcome made some students reflect on the potential difficulties they might one day encounter themselves. For many, choosing a career path feels daunting. They want to pick something that brings fulfillment, not regret. These personal stories made the future feel both inspiring and intimidating

“I felt like I was more nervous about my career than I was before, which I know wasn’t the point of the conversation,” said junior Isabella Lyn Shue. “It definitely scared me to hear how much they struggled. I don’t want to go through that. To hear that just because you’re a woman you have to struggle – it’s heartbreaking, almost gut-wrenching.”

Despite the range of emotions the event brought out, the overall message was hopeful. Most students walked away feeling motivated. The speakers emphasized perseverance, and reminded everyone that facing challenges head-on can make you stronger and more confident.

“Keep moving forward and push through,”  said freshman Erini Goustas. “Even if everyone’s against you, you are your own person and you stand up for yourself.”

Building on that message, Lyn Shue shared her key takeaway from the event:

“I think all these women had one thing in common: they said to be loud, be bold, make yourself known, and don’t forget to do what you love,” she said. “Make sure you enjoy your career and live your life the way you want to, no matter how many risks you have to take.”

While the event was primarily aimed at FLHS students, its impact went beyond them. Staff and faculty also found it meaningful. Some shared that it gave them a fresh perspective and reminded them to be more compassionate with themselves. Ms. Durga, one of the event organizers, spoke about how the experience affected her personally.

“Listening to these women talk about striving for success and not giving up, even when life gets in the way, reminded me that I still have things I want to accomplish. And I should try to figure it out,” said Durga.

Many of the thirteen women who participated have a connection to Francis Lewis High School, whether as alumni or through relationships with current staff. These existing ties gave students a sense of comfort and reassurance, knowing they had someone they could look up to and turn to for advice. The mentors offered their contact information and were open to continuing conversations, both personal and professional. For students, it was a rare chance to build connections with the outside world before graduation.

“I think when we did the Q&A and asked them about their interests and beliefs, it helped me understand their mindset, and how to have that kind of mindset myself,” Lyn Shue reflected.

This opportunity helped students see that while struggles are inevitable, they should never be the reason to give up on a goal. The inspiration these mentors shared has already made a lasting impression and will continue to ripple outwards as students share what they’ve learned.

“I think they’re always going to face challenges,” Ms. Durga said. “They’re always going to be on the front lines of breaking barriers. But it’s up to each person to find the strength, the will, and the adaptability to push through.”

As a final reflection on the event, Ms. Durga shared the two lessons that stayed with her most:

“There were two things that really stuck with me,” she said. “One was to be present. And the other was that hard work doesn’t work if talent doesn’t work hard.”