Doctors, Designers Share Careers With Marywood Palm Valley Students

A local spinal surgeon listens to 80s rock while operating was only one of many insights nearly 100 students at Marywood Palm Valley School learned Wednesday from professionals during its first career day.

David Tahernia, a spinal surgeon and director of the Desert Orthopedic Center in Rancho Mirage, told students from eighth to 12th grade that he always knew he wanted to help people in his work.

"Not a single day goes by where I see something I haven't seen yet," Tahernia said.

The surgeon, who has practiced for 13 years, noted that he listens to his favorite music -- 80s rock -- while operating, getting a few chuckles from students. But mostly, he said he enjoys helping people manage their pain.

"I like to fix things. I like to help people," Tahernia said, encouraging students to do the same.

He was one of 15 speakers, which also included Manny DeJesus, an emergency physician at Eisenhower Medical Center, Gregory Hill, a mechanical and aerospace engineer, Kim Phillips, a therapist, Riverside County Deputy District Attorney Douglas Gee and Mark Karlstrom, a videographer.

Hill, who once served as Mayor of Redondo Beach, said that happiness in his life did not come from the pursuit of wealth.

"Happiness comes form your passion in life," Hill said.

Marywood-Palm Valley School is the only independent private school in the Coachella Valley serving preschool through high school. The school develops intellectual abilities through a passion for learning and critical thinking as well as inspires individual courage, respect, and tolerance.