Westridge Middle School hosted its inaugural career fair for seventh and eighth graders on Wednesday, December 6. The event provided students with the unique opportunity to learn about various professions and gain insights into careers from local professionals.
The professionals came from a variety of fields and backgrounds, ensuring a broad range of insights for the students. The participation from the community surpassed expectations, with 65 professionals volunteering to host a session.
Amy Nine, school social worker, expressed gratitude for the professionals’ involvement. “It means so much that they’re invested in our students and our school. It’s a big deal that they gave up their time to share with our students.”
The career fair is part of the Shawnee Mission School District’s focus on real world learning which prepares students for college and career.
During the fair, students followed individualized schedules rotating through six presentations each. At the end of each session, students had the opportunity to have a “passport” stamped. Students with completed passports were eligible to enter into a raffle at the end of the day.
The real prize, however, was the exposure to career pathways to better prepare students for college and career, explained Pamela Brignoni, seventh grade counselor.
“It’s nice to have a large variety of careers available for them to learn about. Not only are they going to things they’re interested in, but they’re going to things they’ve never even considered. Exposure is so important,” emphasized Brignoni.
Amy Nine agreed, “Anything we can do to help our students think about their future and give them inspiration for their future story is worthwhile.”
During the presentations, professionals like make-up artist Maria Schlicting and musician Enrique Chi shared valuable advice about their respective fields.
Schlicting emphasized the importance of self-motivation, while Chi highlighted the diverse paths one can take to build a career.
The event also featured speakers like Tim Melia from Sporting KC and former Chiefs player, Gehrig Dieter, who each provided students with a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in professional sports.
Eighth grader Trey Frisch, expressed enthusiasm about the career fair, particularly the session with Dieter. “I want to be in the NFL and learning from a former Chiefs player is helpful,” shared Frisch.
Reflecting on her experience, seventh grader Londyn Parks is rethinking a possible career choice. “I went to the attorney session and I don’t think I would like it because I don’t like speaking up in front of people, so I changed my mind,” she explained.
The success of the career fair was a testament to the collaborative efforts of educators and the community in helping to shape the future aspirations of students, expressed Lori Jankowitz, eighth grade counselor.
“We are astounded, and so grateful, for the number of professionals who volunteered their time today, " shared Jankowitz. “We’re proud of our community and our staff for pulling together to make this a great experience for students.”