Hermiston High School seniors who are members of the school's Advanced Business Procedures group pose for a photo June 3, 2024, with members of the public at a networking social at Next Chapter Book Store in Hermiston.

HERMISTON — Hermiston High School seniors took a major step toward life in the professional workplace.

The school’s Advanced Business Procedures group June 3 hosted a networking social that was open to the public, and had an appearance from state Rep. Greg Smith, R-Heppner, according to a June 6 press release from the Hermiston School District.

The ABP group consists of senior business students, who are in classes such as marketing, hospitality, finance and business administration.

The students have started and maintained five businesses, as well as raising money for both scholarships and the business programs at the school. The seniors’ efforts have also raised funds to purchase business attire, so they are prepared for their future interviews and workplaces.

The social was to strengthen relationships between the ABP seniors and other community business owners and advocates.

“It is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to talk to such important and successful community members,” senior Ainsley Philippi said in the press release.

The social took place at Hermiston, starting at the Next Chapter Book Store and ended at the Maxwell Event Center. Students were able to learn from firsthand experience, helping prepare them for their professional careers ahead of them.

Roger Berger, Hermiston High’s career and technical education coordinator, said in the press release the city has hospitable, skilled individuals, “and we must keep fostering opportunities for our senior students to engage professionally within our community.”