Laura Brower set up a Career Fair for third and fourth graders in the county November 12.
Bruce, Calhoun City, and Vardaman’s students attended. Students were separated into groups and led around by student council and Teacher’s Academy members.
“I began the Elementary Career Fair because research shows that it is important for students to be introduced to various careers at an early age. It’s never too early to learn about careers. I think it is great for elementary students to begin identifying careers they’re interested in and understanding what it takes to obtain those careers. Research also shows that career awareness is linked to higher academic achievement. Students see the purpose and value in their education as they begin to link what they’re learning to their career interests. My hope is with increased career awareness and exploration, students will be better prepared for high school planning and to leave high school with a career plan and a better understanding of postsecondary education required for their career choice,” said Brower.
Many different businesses were represented at the fair:
Kim & Co., US ArmyCorps of Engineers, CTC Engineering Program, CTC Metal Fab Program, MSU Geosystems Research Institute (drones), Weyerhaeuser, Calhoun County 4H;
Baptist Hospital, Bruce Telephone Co., Calhoun Banking Center, Pontotoc Electric Power Company, TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority), professional aAthlete and former NFL player M.D. Jennings);
Families First, Calhoun City Police Department, WCBI, MSU Department of Sustainable Bioproducts, and Northwest MS Community College.
“I thought the career fair went very well. The students were excited about this opportunity. They were engaged and asked lots of questions. I was also proud of the youth who helped with the event. The representatives did a great job introducing students to their careers. I am already looking forward to planning for next year’s fair!” she said.