Teens Practice at College and Career Fairs

Deciding whether or not to attend college after high school and what institution to attend is one of the most important decisions young adults make.  Every fall students from high school to college have the opportunity to attend college and career fairs in their local area.  Local school systems organize them.  College preparatory agencies organize them.  Youth development agencies organize them. Congressional leaders organize them.  But are they worth the time and preparation?  Of course they are.  And for more reasons than any of you might think.

I recommend students begin attending college and career fairs as early as 9^th grade.  I even recommend students who don’t think they want to go to college attend at least one college fair.  I recommend students attend so that they not only become familiar with various academic institutions and potential professions but also so that they are knowledgeable about how to represent themselves when they become high school seniors.

Why Do You Recommend Internships?

Experience is a great teacher.  On the job training is a bonus and not a rule in many places of employment and that is the main reason that I highly recommend that all high school and college students complete an internship.  Many students who are seeking employment aren’t hired because they lack experience.  They are unable to gain experience because no one will hire them.  An internship has many short and long-term benefits.  I have listed some of them below.

Intern – any official or formal program to provide practical experience for beginners in an occupation or profession

Career Exploration

• Apply classroom knowledge to the field
• Try different career paths/comparison shop careers
• Decide if the industry is the right field for you

Skill Building

• Gain relevant work experience
• Develop marketable skills
• Enhance existing professional skills
• Gain confidence in your skills
• Build your resume

Employment

• Entry into a company you want to work in