You might think that eighth-graders would have a difficult time concentrating two days before winter break, but Edward Stone students proved this theory wrong while visiting Southeastern Community College on Wednesday, Dec. 19, for its annual career fair.
The eighth grade students were welcomed by successful community members and leaders who volunteered their time to help students begin thinking about their future career aspirations. Students were able to learn about various career paths in fields like business, skilled trades, healthcare, and the arts.
Students listened to career exploration presentations describing the daily routines of various jobs as well as the steps it takes to get them. They also participated in hands-on activities such as identifying marketing strategies they see in their own lives, drawing ordinary objects in new ways, and connecting electrical wires in order to make a speaker play.
With the wide variety of interests and careers represented, it was not difficult for students to connect with at least one of the presenters.
Student Brynn Robinson’s favorite presentation was a session on public relations and coaching presented by SCC Head Volleyball Coach Michelle Popkin. As a volleyball player herself, Robinson saw a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes.
“I learned that it takes a lot to be a volleyball coach,” said Robinson. “It’s not just about playing the game; it’s about building friendships with your team.”
The career fair was another initiative in the class of 2029’s GEAR UP program, a federally funded college preparation program standing for Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs. GEAR UP coach Ivy Tranter and eighth grade counselor Dayton Leazer collaborated with the Greater Burlington Partnership to organize the event.
Edward Stone principal Alec Clark described the impact of both the career fair and the GEAR UP program.
“It’s good to get (the students) out of the school and into the different areas of the community to learn from other people besides the normal faces they see every day,” Clark said. “The biggest thing I’ve seen is just getting people into the building or the kids going out [in order to] get them those different opportunities.”
The students were not the only people positively impacted by the crossover between the school and the community. Presenter Elizabeth Pappas, Executive Director of the Art Center of Burlington, returned to the career fair for a second time this year to continue its mission.
“I love talking with young people, especially about the arts and careers in the arts and how they can get involved in their community,” said Pappas. “It’s fun to have their perspectives because they’re different from mine. I learn a lot from them too! It’s good for all of us.”
The career fair occurred just in time to get students thinking about their career goals before they enroll in their first high school classes after winter break.
“This stuff will hopefully trigger which pathway they want to choose and they can get signed up for the right classes, leading down the road to hopefully getting college credit while they’re at BHS,” said Clark.
As students begin to wonder where they see themselves in five, 10, or even 15 years, the connections made through community crossovers like the career fair will no doubt impact their lives and their community for the better.
