MOSES LAKE — One of the challenges of high school is that eventually, it comes to an end. Graduation arrives and – then what? Whatever the choice – college or into the workforce, career training or military service – the decision affects the rest of the student’s life.
The college and career fair at Moses Lake High School on May 1 was designed to give students a look at their options long before graduation arrives. More than 100 local businesses, training programs, colleges and military branches sponsored booths.
“According to (counselor Enrique Tarver), this was the best one ever,” said Ryan Shannon, Moses Lake School District director of public relations.
College and career fairs are longtime institutions, but at MLHS, they’ve adapted with changing times. Not every career or every job requires a degree, and the fair reflected that, Shannon said.
He cited a student who attended a Moses Lake School Board meeting and explained how a firefighting class changed her perspective on possible careers.
“We want to make sure every student has the opportunity to realize and the opportunity to explore what their future may be,” Shannon said.
Tarver said students appreciated the chance to learn about some of their choices and talk to people who worked in those industries or were familiar with those colleges and universities.
“There was a little something for everyone. And I think that’s key,” Shannon said.
Business participants ranged from Genie Industries to Samaritan Healthcare, from the city of Moses Lake to SkillSource. Colleges included Washington State, Whitworth, Central Washington and Whitworth universities, among others. Shannon said Big Bend Community College brought representatives from many of its programs, from agriculture to welding.
“Representatives shared how well students behaved and were prepared with questions, and the MLHS staff mentioned students were hesitant before arriving but left with big smiles on their faces,” Tarver said in an MLSD press release.
Moses Lake High School students filled the gym on College and Career Day. A variety of options are available to students in and around Moses Lake with education opportunities and living-wage jobs available.