Today, a 17-year-old is sitting in jail instead of sitting in a classroom as a suspect in yet another gun crime.

More and more young people are throwing away their futures in this city every day because they lack guidance and choose the wrong paths.

Fortunately, 150 students at Selma High School showed they are interested in choosing the right path by attending Career Day at Wallace Community College.

Representatives of professions ranging from bankers to chefs greeted the students. The message they were delivered was extremely encouraging.

Many times during their high school careers, students study the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic. But they aren’t always exposed to the other educational opportunities out there that can lead to a very successful career.

One of the options presented to students attending the special day was technical school.

Not everyone has the same interests coming out of high school. Every student does not want to go to a four-year college to earn a bachelors degree. That doesn’t necessarily mean they can’t pursue higher education and become a successful member of the workforce.

Dr. Verdell Lett Dawson, administrative assistant to the superintendent for curriculum and instruction for Selma City Schools, said students attending technical schools could often earn $50 to $50 per hour putting their skills to work. That adds up to $83,200 per year.

Doctors, lawyers, bankers and engineers provide a very important service. But there is also a high demand for cosmetologists, welders and other skilled labor positions. The opportunities are there for young people to be successful. We have plenty of programs right here in the Selma schools and at Wallace Community College. The challenge is raising awareness to students that there are options.

We need more programs like Career Day to let our children know there are options if they don’t feel like a four-year college is the right fit. Giving them a chance to launch a successful career can spark a renewed interest in learning.