Fair helps students prepare for future
Among the normal rituals of homecoming, athletics and clubs, teenagers must also face the inevitable change of pace and environment that comes once they receive their diploma.
Many students are often unsure of the career or academic path they'll follow after graduation. High school sets students to embark on a journey to decide what they want to study or what career to pursue. They must consider many factors, including job prospects, the degree required and salary.
For some, this may be a daunting task. However, Live Oak High School's counseling staff seeks to ease the burden of this search through its College and Career Fair, where professionals and school representatives will inform students about their respective careers or schools.
Considering the amount of opportunities available to LOHS students, counselor Jennie Duran said, "There needs to be a push for career and technical jobs. Most of the information given in the past has only been about academics, but students need to be exposed to what else is out there."
Upon hearing about the fair, junior Mishu Gulati, 17, said, "I'd like to know about each school's most popular majors. I want to see how the schools will persuade us to consider their school as a viable and good choice."
Junior Jocelyn Nuñez, 16, said, "The fair will definitely open up more possibilities for students. I hope to receive information on veterinary medicine."
The fair is set for 8 a.m. to noon on Feb. 10 at LOHS. Students will be divided into large groups, in which they will see professionals in 15 career sectors give presentations.
About two to three presenters per classroom will discuss their professions. They will lecture for about eight minutes each, then time will be allotted for questions. Students will be able to learn about various career pathways, such as agriculture, business, information technology and construction. Throughout the minimum day, student groups will rotate through the classrooms.
Students are also required to attend the college portion of the fair in the gymnasium. Private and public colleges and career/technical colleges will have booths set up and information ready for inquiring students. There, students can discover which schools best fit their needs or familial and financial situation. The information provided will help guide them in the direction of a career they may be interested in.
Duran said she hopes students will "Keep an open mind and see that there are many ways to accomplish their goals."
The counseling staff is looking for more professionals and school representatives to lecture at this event. All those interested must contact the counseling office to reserve their place by Jan. 13.
To participate or to receive more information, contact counselor Jennie Duran at 695-5415, ext. 272, or via email at jduran@lousd.k12.ca.us. Or contact Rajdeep Johal at 695-5415, ext. 273, or via email at rajijohal05@yahoo.com.
Your support will ensure the success of this event.
Ciria Salazar is a senior at Live Oak High School. Her column appears every six weeks in Education.
