Is BOCES the right place for you to go to star your career? What classes does the program offer? BOCES is a place that can help young people learn skills that can begin their career for the years to come. They offer classes for all kinds of skills, from nursing to photography, to cosmetology.

“I signed up for BOCES because I wanted to get a head start with my career, I wanted to be ahead of the game for college,” Jasmine Yac, senior, says “I attended BOCES for nursing and now I know at least 1/3 of the material that will be covered. I joined because it was recommended by my brother who took the automotive class.”

Westhampton Beach High School has given students the opportunity to join the BOCES program for years. The BOCES program is made to help students learn a skill and prepare for college. It is offered to all juniors and seniors in the high school. Many people attend BOCES for various reasons, whether its to meet new people, exceed in a skill, or get a head start on their career. BOCES offers an experience like no other.

“I love the people you meet at your campus. It’s a judgement free area and everyone is excited to meet one another and we end up becoming our own little family,” Yac adds. “After high school I will be able to work in a hospital as a medical assistant at the age of 18. Hopefully I will pass my certification test for nurse assistant and be able to work as a CNA too!”

Students at Westhampton Beach have a choice to attend the BOCES in either Bellport or Riverhead. There is another campus in Islip which is not offered to Westhampton Beach students. The three campuses offer different classes depending on what the student wants to take. Every campus has their own fundraisers and a student body consisting of students who are willing to participate. BOCES is also very involved with Skills USA. Skills USA is a competition at the end of the year. There are state competitions, and if students win those they can end up in the nationals. Skills USA gives you a chance to compete your skill against other students from all around the USA. Skills USA also has competitions for other subjects, such as the opening ceremony, creating a banner, and mathematics. Being a part of Skills USA is an unforgettable experience that everyone should want to be apart of. This opportunity is awarded to students through BOCES.

“Attending BOCES is a lifetime experience. I took film/tv production last year and met so many people who I still keep in touch with. This year I’m taking nurse assisting and everyone there is so amazing, your BOCES class is almost like a second family,” Kassandra Valdespino, senior, said. Everyone in your BOCES class has the same passion and interests as you, which helps you get along. The social aspect of BOCES is what makes being there so enjoyable. In conclusion, it’s a place full of individuals who care about their futures and are ready to prepare.