High school underclassmen could choose from 68 two- and four-year colleges and universities, trade schools, and military branches to speak with at the 9th annual College and Career Fair.
By Gary Weckselblatt
Quakertown Community High School juniors, sophomores, and freshmen had the opportunity to glimpse their future this afternoon as representatives from 68 two- and four-year colleges and universities, trade schools, and military branches set up shop in the lower gymnasium for the 9th annual College and Career Fair.
“We wanted to have something for everybody,” said Eric Gozzard, the school counselor who organized Wednesday’s event. “It’s important for students to start engaging in the process of what they’ll be doing for the rest of their lives. Maybe today put something on the radar that they haven’t thought of before."
Mr. Gozzard said the feedback he received from visiting representatives was very positive in regard to the questions students were asking. He credited teachers for helping students prepare. "Their participation was huge," he said.
Since COVID, the event has been relegated to an online option or to individual classrooms. Students appreciated this year’s setup, which afforded them the opportunity to obtain information from several schools in one location.
Kasey Goepfert, a junior seeking information on children's ministry and seminary, said she found “more in-depth information” from a variety of institutions. “Today far exceeded any expectations I had,” she said.
Ava DeFalco and Lauren Harwick, both juniors, stopped at different tables seeking information that might help them make a decision on where they’ll land following graduation. Ava is considering a career in finance while Lauren is looking at nursing or animal science.
“It’s a really good opportunity to talk to people, especially if you’re looking to find different options and not really sure what you want to do,” Ava said. “
Lauren said seniors “already know where they’re going, so for me this is a good chance to gather information to help narrow down my decision.”
School counselor Brenda Roth said, “I love the opportunities we’re giving all students, from colleges to trade schools and the military. They can speak with so many different representatives and be as involved as they want to be. You never know, something may open their eyes that can spark an interest.”
Principal Mattias van 't Hoenderdaal praised the efforts of Mr. Gozzard and the guidance secretaries for “doing a wonderful job in bringing a wide array of educational and career opportunities to help our students succeed.”
Gary Weckselblatt, QCSD Director of Communications, writes about the people and the programs that impact the Quakertown Community School District. He can be reached at 215-529-2028 or [email protected].