Highway 91 Students Benefit from Career Fair
390 students from grades 9-12 attended the Highway 91 Career Fair on September 24 to help them plan their futures. This annual event is planned by the counselors of all schools, and this year it was held in Howells-Dodge. Students from Leigh, Clarkson, Howells-Dodge, Humphrey, Lindsay Academy, Archangels, and St. Edward were in attendance.
The high school students got to see some of their career options by attending four sessions led by various area businesses that they individually signed up for based on their career interests, as well as one session specifically designed for their grade level. The fair also began and ended with an inspiring keynote speaker, Mike Donahue, the founder of Value Up. Additionally, the seniors were all able to take part in an individual mock interview.
Senior Karly Wendt stated, “I think that the career fair was very beneficial and helped a lot of kids. It was a great opportunity for people to explore ideas of what they want to do with their lives and what they can rule out. The keynote speaker was phenomenal. He changed many people's perspective of life and gave a good message. He was also interactive with the crowd so it kept people involved. He told intense stories that pulled on people's heart strings, and made people think deeper about their decisions.”
At the same time, the junior high students from these schools went off to Wayne State College for a college visit.
Junior High student Ella Hansen stated, “I think the Wayne trip went amazing. We all learned a lot from visiting the college. We learned very important skills while we were on our visit.”
So much from both the career fair and the trip to Wayne State the junior high took had a lasting impact on all grades. Leigh counselor, Mrs. Maddie Gall commented that, “I’m so appreciative of the other Highway 91 counselors who put in so much work to provide this incredible opportunity for our students. The event went really well, and Howells-Dodge did an outstanding job hosting. Mike Donahue delivered a powerful message that truly resonated with our students and set the tone for a day full of learning and career exploration.” All students had a great time and they cannot wait for next year’s new experiences!
The meal for all the students, presenters, and teachers was graciously provided by Cargill Meat Solutions, Clarkson Bank, Homestead Bank, and the FCS programs from Leigh, Clarkson, Howells-Dodge, and Humphrey.