Ellenville Junior/Senior High School hosted a Career Fair this spring for students in Grades 11 and 12. More than 30 businesses and organizations from the area were present at the May 25 event to recruit students for employment and/or training and to share information about future career opportunities. Students could even interview for jobs right on the spot!
“This was a great opportunity for all of our students, especially those preparing to graduate who have not yet determined their post-secondary plans or will be staying in the area for college and are seeking employment,” said School Counselor Tracy Berry.
Student attendees were encouraged to review the list of participating businesses and organizations in advance and to research those that they were interested in. They were also given a template to use to prepare a résumé to distribute to potential employers. In addition, the students were encouraged to “dress to impress.” To help them look professional, they were given the opportunity to utilize the ECS Boutique, the in-school “shop” where students can access free business attire.
Participants included emergency medical technicians (EMTs), New York State troopers, and representatives from military branches and the local police and fire departments. Also participating were representatives from Ellenville ShopRite, manufacturing, trade, and technology companies, and regional medical facilities. Students could also explore job opportunities in the electrical and plumbing trades, direct support and home health care, local summer camps, and trade internships through Ulster BOCES.
“This is a great way to get experience,” said Grade 9 student Caily Witz-Hiltz, who was exploring after-school opportunities at Stockade Works, a local film and television industry non-profit organization.