To career fair or not to career fair, that is the question. Set up like a college fair, the event is notorious for its masses of students who leave the school just as it begins. However, some stay to look around the fair and look into part-time jobs or future careers, and this year, freshmen were even required to attend and take notes. So, the real question is, if the career fair is worth it?
On Feb. 21 of 2019, the fair began with a special guest speaker who gave a “Secret to Success” presentation. Casey Kreiter, a football long snapper and public speaker, came and spoke to bleachers full of students. An overwhelming majority of them were freshmen. “I find it extremely helpful when people actually write down their goals, especially kids,” said Kreiter. “If you want to reach success, and take advantage of as many opportunities as possible, it’s crucial to write everything down. If you see it, you’ll do it.”
During this hour, a portion of the freshmen crowd expressed disinterest. Riley Sapiano, freshman, said, “No, I don’t believe career day is useful. There’s not a lot of options, and it’s a waste of time.” Other underclassmen have a similar opinion about the ordeal, such as Jules Kurben, freshman, who said, “It’s pointless if you don’t want any of the jobs they offer.”
After the speech ended, the students were let out to go into the upper gym, where dozens of booths were set up with different jobs and careers for every age to choose from.
Booths lined the gym, from Aquatots to community college, Marines to Air Force, children learning centers to Starbucks. Some were handing out free cups and candy to reel in attention, and would then individually ask if anyone was looking to make money for college or their future career.
Many adults hosting a booth believed in the excellent opportunities that these fairs bring. Janice, a worker from King Soopers, said, “I see a lot of kids here who really realize the opportunities here, and it just fills me with joy. I mean, they should be grateful for these wonderful occasions, and try to maybe even find a job. Some places here hire as low as fourteen.”
As opposed to a popular underclassmen opinion, junior Justin Jung has recognized the usefulness of events like these. “I really do think it’s useful,” said Jung. “Even if you don’t get a job, you meet people who might help you later in life. It’s always good to build some connections.”
So, is Career Day worth it? Well, of course it’s up to you to decide, but clearly there are plenty of opportunities to check out. Even if you missed it this year, next year offers different booths and new employment opportunities.
Madeline Klayer, Staff Reporter
