Career Expos and Figuring out the Future
On October 18th, Partner4Work and the Southwest Corner Workforce Development Board worked together to host a Healthcare Career Expo for high school students at the David L. Lawerence Convention Center. There were over 40 vendors, 35 school districts, and 640 students in attendance! PA Secretary of the Department of Labor and Industry, Nancy Walker, also attended and was able to talk with many vendors, students, and educators. You can hear Partner4Work’s Susie Puskar talk about the benefits of the healthcare expo here. The expo was a way for students to explore careers and they are simply one vehicle in which to do so. This begs the question, “how do events such as expos help students figure out the future?” Is this just another event or is there real power in attending?
As high school students begin to navigate their academic journeys and plan for the future, the pressure to choose a career path can feel overwhelming. Many students are unsure of what they want to do after graduation, and the vast array of options can be paralyzing. However, attending career expos offers a valuable opportunity to explore potential career paths, gain insight from professionals, and make more informed decisions about their future. Here’s why career expos are beneficial for high school students and how they can help shape their career journey.
1. Exposure to a Wide Range of Careers
One of the most significant advantages of career expos is the opportunity to learn about a variety of careers and industries. Whether it’s healthcare, engineering, the arts, technology, or business, career expos bring together professionals from a wide array of fields, allowing students to explore careers they might not have considered. This exposure can be especially valuable for students who feel uncertain about their future or who haven’t yet discovered a passion.
2. Direct Access to Industry Professionals
Career expos give students the chance to speak directly with people who are currently working in their fields of interest. This access to real-world professionals can provide invaluable insight into what different jobs are really like on a day-to-day basis. Students can ask questions about job responsibilities, work-life balance, required skills, and education paths, gaining a more realistic understanding of what it takes to succeed in various careers.
3. Networking Opportunities
Building a professional network early on can provide long-term benefits as students progress through their academic careers and beyond. Career expos allow students to make connections with recruiters, industry leaders, and professionals who might become mentors or offer advice in the future. Even if students are not yet looking for a job or internship, these relationships can open doors down the line, helping them as they explore career opportunities or apply for programs in college.
4. Exploration of Educational Paths
Many students struggle with the question of how to get from their high school education to their dream career. Career expos provide an opportunity to learn more about the various educational paths available. Representatives from colleges, vocational schools, and apprenticeship programs often attend these events, giving students the chance to ask about specific degree programs, certifications, and training opportunities. This helps students align their academic choices with their career goals, ensuring they make more informed decisions about their future studies.
5. Hands-On Experience and Demonstrations
Many career expos include interactive activities, live demonstrations, and hands-on experiences that allow students to engage with the work that various professions involve. For example, students interested in healthcare might have the chance to observe medical procedures or participate in basic medical simulations. Those interested in technology might be able to try out coding software or interact with cutting-edge innovations in robotics. These experiences not only make the event more engaging but also help students understand the skills required in different careers.
6. Increased Motivation and Direction
For students who are uncertain about their next steps, attending a career expo can provide the clarity and direction they need. Exposure to the range of possibilities available to them can inspire a sense of purpose and motivate them to focus on their academic goals. Additionally, hearing about the hard work and perseverance required in certain fields can instill a greater sense of ambition and encourage students to stay focused on their studies.
7. Practical Tips for Career Readiness
Many career expos offer workshops, seminars, or talks focused on career readiness, such as resume writing, interview tips, and job search strategies. These resources can be extremely helpful for students who are preparing to apply for internships or part-time jobs, as well as for those who are just beginning to consider career options. Learning how to present oneself professionally is an important skill that students can apply right away, whether they’re looking for a summer job or preparing for college applications.
8. Exploring Internships and Volunteer Opportunities
Career expos often highlight opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through internships, volunteer positions, or part-time jobs. These opportunities can provide students with a foot in the door of their chosen industry, allowing them to build relevant experience before they even graduate. Hands-on experience can also help students decide if a particular career is truly a good fit for them, making it easier to make informed decisions down the road.
9. Confidence Boost
Navigating the world of work can be intimidating, especially for young students who are just starting to consider their futures. Attending a career expo can boost a student’s confidence by demystifying the process of career exploration. Meeting professionals, learning about potential job paths, and understanding the steps needed to achieve their goals helps students feel more prepared and empowered to take charge of their future.
Conclusion
Career expos are a powerful tool for high school students as they begin to chart their future careers. By offering exposure to diverse fields, direct access to industry professionals, networking opportunities, and a chance to explore educational paths, career expos provide invaluable insights and guidance. They not only help students discover their passions but also equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their chosen career paths. For any high school student unsure of what comes next, attending a career expo can be an important step toward finding clarity and motivation on the road to a successful career. Also, if you missed out on this year’s healthcare career expo, don’t worry! We’ve already started planning for next year.
