CALIFORNIA, Mo. -- Microscopes, uniforms, gadgets and protective gear were among the various props Mid-Missouri businesses brought to the California High School career fair Friday.
The career fair concept was revived this year by counselors Kim Wilkins and Whitney Toosley, drawing in representatives from 28 career fields.
"We're excited we were able to have this much our first year," Wilkins said.
Students from all four classes were given an hour to informally visit each booth that appealed to their interests.
The counselors will survey students afterward to find out what other careers they could add for next year, as they intend to make this an annual offering.
In October 2016, they plan to expand College and Career Week events by adding this career fair to the College Night, Financial Aid Night, Apps and Snacks Night for seniors to fill out college applications, and the FAFSA Frenzy for students to fill out federal financial aid applications.
Although most of those activities relate more closely to juniors and seniors, freshmen and sophomores should start thinking about their future after high school, Wilkins said.
"So many times, they don't think about this before their senior year," Toosley said.
Through other surveys, course planning and interest inventories, the counselors hope to help encourage the students' individual interests.