Southeast Polk Jr. High students spent the morning exploring their futures at the Jr. High College and Career Fair. More than 35 vendors, organizations, and colleges participated, giving students the opportunity to learn about a wide range of potential post-secondary paths.

Students visited booths representing fields such as healthcare, law enforcement and fire services, banking, entertainment, engineering, manufacturing, and colleges and universities, among many others. The event allowed students to speak directly with professionals about what their work is like and how they prepared for their careers.

To encourage exploration, students were given a “passport” and challenged to visit at least three different booths to be entered into a raffle drawing. As they talked with representatives, students asked thoughtful questions such as “What does a typical day look like in your field?” and “What high school classes or hobbies would help prepare me for a career like this?”

After each conversation, students recorded one pro or con they learned about the career on their passport. They also reflected on their experience by answering questions such as:

Who did you enjoy talking to the most, and why?

What is one fact that surprised you?

Is this a path you might want to explore further?

The activity helped students think about their interests, ask meaningful questions, and begin considering the many opportunities available to them after high school.

Thank you to all of the organizations that took time to visit Southeast Polk Jr. High and share their knowledge with our students. Your willingness to connect with students helps prepare them for success in college, careers, and civic life.