News Summary
Aiken County’s “Power Up Your Future Career and College Day” brought together eighth graders from 11 middle schools to explore various career paths. With hands-on activities and discussions with local businesses and educators, students gained valuable insights into potential futures in fields like biomedical science, automotive, and engineering. The event emphasized the importance of early career decisions and how education aligns with future aspirations, leaving attendees inspired and more confident about their choices.
Students Step into Their Future at Aiken County’s Career and College Day
The atmosphere was electric on February 27, 2025, at the Western Carolina State Fairgrounds in Aiken, South Carolina, where hundreds of eager eighth graders gathered for the highly anticipated “Power Up Your Future Career and College Day.” Despite the overcast skies, with a comfy high of 72°F and a slight breeze blowing at 10 to 20 mph, the spirits of the students were soaring.
Exploration of Future Pathways
Organized with a mission to ignite aspirations and expose young minds to an array of career opportunities, this event welcomed students from 11 middle schools across Aiken County. It was an exciting chance for these eighth graders to connect with local businesses, colleges, and instructors who are ready to guide them into their futures. Attendees were thrilled to mingle with representatives from various fields, giving them unique insights into what awaits them after high school.
Guiding Lights in Career Exploration
With so much to learn, Kenneth Lott, the director of Career & Technical Education for Aiken County, knew how pivotal events like these are for students. The emphasis was on exploring different career paths, as many students are beginning to think seriously about their futures. Alongside him was Joni McDaniel, a regional workforce advisor from the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce, who played a key role in bringing this event to life.
Hands-On Learning Opportunities
Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to dive into hands-on activities across various career pathways, including exciting fields like welding, barbering, automotive mechanics, fashion design, and biomedical science. Local business representatives had booths set up, ready to chat with students about the wide-ranging possibilities available in different industries.
Engineering was a particularly highlighted area, thanks to the presence of Gabrielle Lee and Laura Johnson, associate engineers from Savannah River Nuclear Solutions. They took the stage to showcase how fulfilling a career in STEM can be, encouraging students to consider these paths as they move forward.
Understanding the Importance of Early Decisions
Leslie Johnson, a career specialist associated with Paul Knox and Leavelle McCampbell middle schools, shared insights about the significance of eighth grade in shaping future career clusters for high school. This crucial period encourages students to think about the directions they want their education to take.
A Biomedical Science Experience
One of the highlights was a captivating demonstration led by Christie Palladino, a physician, who showcased how to prepare examination slides under the microscope, providing an engaging peek into the world of biomedical sciences. Students got a hands-on experience, and the excitement was palpable.
Gaining confidence was a common theme heard from participants, including Jase’Lynn Ceasar from Kennedy Middle School. Many students left the event feeling more self-assured and eager to explore these fields further. At the nursing station, students like Journey Mays and Tora Stokes seized the opportunity to learn how to draw blood from a mannequin, bringing a taste of real-world medical experiences directly to them.
Shifting Perspectives on Future Plans
With a gentle reminder, Lott communicated to students that college isn’t the only route after graduation. The day’s activities were designed to illustrate the real connection between their current classes and potential future careers. By engaging in these discussions and hands-on experiences, students are starting to see the broader picture of their educational journey and how it aligns with their career aspirations.
A Day to Remember
The “Power Up Your Future Career and College Day” was not just another school event. It was a day filled with inspiration, exploration, and confidence-building for the young minds of Aiken County. As they anticipate this continued journey into their future career paths, there’s no doubt that the experiences and insights gained today will be cherished for years to come.
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Additional Resources
- The Post and Courier: Aiken Middle School Career Exploration
- Augusta Chronicle: Aiken County Back to School Dates
- WJBF: SRNS to Host Engineering Job Fair in North Augusta
- WRDW: Find Your New Career – April Hiring Events
- Wikipedia: Career Exploration
