Mt. Vernon Middle School hosted an exciting and educational Career Fair for students in fifth, sixth, and seventh grade. The event provided a unique opportunity for students to explore a wide range of potential career paths and gain valuable insight into the professional world. 

In the morning, all fifth-grade students from the three elementary schools were transported to the Mt. Vernon Middle School Fieldhouse for the event, while sixth and seventh-grade students had their turn in the afternoon. Students had the chance to engage with various professionals from different fields, each offering firsthand knowledge about their careers. From technology and business to human services and the military, the fair showcased a diverse array of professions, giving students a glimpse into what their future could hold.​

The Career Fair was designed to inspire students to think critically about their interests and passions, and to help them start considering how their skills and talents could translate into a career. The fair allowed them to ask questions, learn about job responsibilities, and gain an understanding about the paths professionals took to get where they are today. 

There were six engaging career stations, offering six minutes of hands-on learning. Students were grouped by classroom, with each group rotating through the stations, spending a set amount of time at each one. Some featured career stations included Hancock County Career Center Pathways, hospitality, public administration, communication, tourism, human services, military opportunities, and AV technology.

The Career Fair was designed to inspire students to think critically about their interests and passions, and to help them start considering how their skills and talents could translate into a career. The fair allowed them to ask questions, learn about job responsibilities, and gain an understanding about the paths professionals took to get where they are today. 

There were six engaging career stations, offering six minutes of hands-on learning. Students were grouped by classroom, with each group rotating through the stations, spending a set amount of time at each one. Some featured career stations included Hancock County Career Center Pathways, hospitality, public administration, communication, tourism, human services, military opportunities, and AV technology.

In addition to learning about careers, students were encouraged to think about the skills and qualities that will help them succeed in the future. High school counselors were also present to provide valuable information about the various pathways students can pursue during their high school years. They offered guidance on how students can choose courses and engage in activities that align with their future college majors, helping them better prepare for their academic and career goals. Many professionals emphasized the importance of communication, problem-solving, creativity, and perseverance in their respective fields.

 For eighth-grade students, instead of attending the middle school career fair, they usually experience Junior Achievement’s BizTown, which simulates students role-playing as citizens, workers, and consumers in their community.

Mt. Vernon Middle School counselor, Michelle Shepherd, stated “We want to thank our community partners for volunteering their time to spark the young minds of our students. Students were engaged and excited while visiting with our community members. They asked wonderful questions and left the career fair excited about their futures. Connecting the learning of today to the opportunities of tomorrow helps students become more engaged and invested in what they are learning in all of their classrooms!” 

The Mt. Vernon Middle School Career Fair was a resounding success, leaving students with a renewed sense of curiosity and motivation as they continue to explore their interests and prepare for the future. It also sparked valuable conversations among teachers, parents, and students about the importance of early career exploration.