When should young people start thinking about careers?
Mike Clayborne, president of the CREATE Foundation, says eighth grade.
CREATE, a community development organization for 17 counties in northeast Mississippi, will hold a career expo for thousands of eighth-graders in October at the BancorpSouth Arena in Tupelo.
At first blush, it might seem odd that 13-year-olds should be considering career paths. But the world of work has changed much during recent years as technology continues to reshape and redefine the workplace.
By the time these 13-year-olds finish college, they may well be competing for jobs that don’t exist today, so exposure to technology that will shape the workplace of tomorrow is of real benefit.
The expo will be tailored to the kids, which means the companies who participate will focus on providing basic information in a fun, hands-on manner. We’re encouraged that 750 eighth graders from Lowndes County, 299 from Clay and 554 from Oktibbeha will attend the expo.
It’s more about possibilities than plans at this age. While a few kids may leave the expo with a clear vision of what occupation they want to pursue, the expo is certain to broaden the horizons of all attendees by exposing them to some of the opportunities out there.
It is often difficult for young students to see the correlation between what they are being taught in school and how those lessons are applied in the working world. Field trips being virtually a thing of the past, making that connection can be even more of a challenge. When students understand the practical applications of what they’re exposed to in the classroom, they are far more likely to embrace their studies.
As eighth-graders, students are transitioning from elementary education to more complex subject matter, particularly in the areas of math and science.
As the modern workplace becomes more specialized, with workers being required to have specific, advanced skills, it is important young students begin to prepare themselves at an early age.
We believe the expo is a wonderful tool to kick-start that process.
CREATE is asking for community support to ensure the success of the expo. Private citizens or organizations can sponsor students or serve as volunteers, while area businesses and industry can participate as exhibitors.
In our ever-changing world, it is never too soon to think about the future.
To learn more about the career expo or to volunteer or sponsor a student, contact Albine Bennett at CREATE at 662-844-8989 or email her at [email protected].
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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