To get more insight on working women within the field, the Women’s Studies class attended a field trip to the Montgomery County Courthouse on March 19.
According to social studies teacher Nicole Harner, the field trip has been an ongoing experience for students for the past 10 years.
Though the format of this experience has shifted from professionals in the classroom to those in the courtroom, the purpose of the trip has remained the same.
“They hear from women in all types of positions,” Harner said. “[They] hear from [the panelists] about their experiences as they pursued their career, balanced family life with their career, how they dealt with setbacks. [Students also hear the womens’]stories of resiliency.”
This year, Souderton Area High School alumna and assistant district attorney Karla Pisarcik joined as a panelist, sharing her insight on the topic, having been both a panel member and a Women’s Studies student.
“I was looking forward to speaking with everyone,” Pisarcik said. “I was really just excited to kind of having a back and forth conversation and seeing how things are now compared to when I was in high school and hearing what students are facing these days.”
One of the larger takeaways from the panelists was the importance of having a strong support system, highlighting understanding within the workplace environment.
“[The speakers] stressed the importance of having a supportive friend group, especially [one] with women around you, even if it’s not a partner,” senior Olivia Coates said, “but having people who will uplift you and be there for you instead of people who will drag you down.”
Many reflected on the impact of the panel and the Women’s Studies class, and how it has influenced and shaped them as individuals.
According to Pisarcik, back when she took the class, this was her first opportunity to talk with “professional women” (those working in male-dominated fields), and it opened up “a new world of professional possibilities,” showing her that she can do whatever she wants.
Junior Sarah Stratton said that she feels that the class really empowers her.
Stratton noted times when she has felt angered or frustrated by the experiences women have faced throughout history.
According to Harner, Women’s Studies covers women throughout history and their trials and tribulations while also noting their strengths. “The course is one that recognizes those who are not always recognized in history,” Harner said.
Coates said that Women’s Studies exposes students to the realities that women face, and thinks that people need to educate themselves on the current happenings in today’s social climate.