Students have the opportunity to explore a variety of career paths Thursday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. during campus’ annual trade fair as representatives from local businesses, trade schools, and community colleges will be on campus to showcase careers ranging from cosmetology and welding to real estate and healthcare. 

“We want to make sure that when students leave us, they know there are many paths available to them,” principal Stacey Whaling said. “Trades can be an amazing next step for a lot of students. Some go straight into the workforce, others pursue a trade or go to college, it really depends on where they see themselves. Keeping an open mind is key because you never know what the future holds.” 

For some students, the trade fair provides a glimpse into programs and classes they could pursue after high school, including opportunities offered by Collin College, which will also be represented at the event. 

“Since I’m going to Collin for my first two years before transferring to A&M, I think the trade fair will be interesting because it’ll let me explore the different career opportunities and electives Collin offers,” senior Rupal Shirpurkar said.

The fair is an opportunity for sophomore Sanvi Goyanka to explore career paths they’re already interested in, and learn more about how to pursue them. 

“I’ve never gone to the Trade Fair, but I want to this year because I heard it has a lot of different options like cosmetology school, which I’m really interested in,” Goyanka said. “I think going will help me learn how trade school works and what the process for applying is like.”

With representatives from industries such as healthcare, hospitality, public service, and technology, students can explore a wide range of career opportunities and connect directly with professionals in each field.

“Events like this really give students more ideas and options than they might normally have,” Whaling said. “It’s about giving them the chance to see all the possibilities waiting for them after high school.”