(Batesville, IN) – Genesis: Pathways to Success recently hosted its annual Career Exploration Expo, bringing approximately 750 high school juniors and seniors together for a day focused on exploring careers, education, and opportunities after high school.
The event at Batesville High School brought together students from Batesville, Oldenburg Academy, South Ripley, Jac-Cen-Del, and Milan high schools.
Students had the opportunity to interact with colleges and universities, local businesses and organizations, entrepreneurs, and military representatives as they explored a variety of possible paths for their futures.
This year’s Expo featured 24 colleges and universities, 24 businesses and organizations, eight local entrepreneurs, and two military representatives, giving students the opportunity to learn directly from people working and studying in a variety of fields.
Hands-on activities and demonstrations also allowed students to experience careers rather than simply hear about them.
Students practiced skills such as using a hammer and writing a check, explored health careers, learned about different college programs and career opportunities, and experienced careers through a Virtual Reality booth.
The Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC) introduced students to entrepreneurship and small business, while other exhibitors helped students discover career paths they may not have previously considered—including the reminder that even something as simple as candy can be a career.
“Sometimes students don’t know what they’re interested in simply because they haven’t had the opportunity to experience it yet,” said Lori Rennekamp, Entrepreneurial Program Coordinator for Genesis: Pathways to Success. “That’s what makes the Career Exploration Expo so valuable. We want students to be able to ask questions, try something new, meet people from different industries, and walk away thinking, ‘I didn’t know I could do that.’ Even one new idea or connection can change the way a student sees their future.”
The Career Exploration Expo is designed to give students a chance to ask questions, try new things, and learn about opportunities available in their own communities. The Expo has previously impacted more than 700 students at each event, connecting students from area high schools.
Genesis: Pathways to Success extends its appreciation to all of the businesses, colleges, universities, entrepreneurs, military representatives, and organizations who took the time to participate and share their knowledge with students. A special thank you goes to the event sponsors and volunteers who helped make the Expo possible, as well as Batesville High School for providing the space to host the event.
Genesis: Pathways to Success works to provide students with hands-on experiences that support career development, youth education, and entrepreneurship throughout Southeastern Indiana. The Career Exploration Expo is one of the organization’s efforts to help students explore their options, make meaningful connections, and prepare for life after high school.
To learn more about Genesis: Pathways to Success or if you have questions about its programs, visit www.genesisp2s.org, contact Clarice Gordon by emailing cpatterson@genesisp2s.org, calling (812) 933-1098, or visiting 13 E. George Street, Suite B, in Batesville.
