DOWNINGTOWN – Students from Chester County Technical College High School (TCHS) from all three campuses recently had the opportunity to participate in career preparation activities at the first-ever Career Ready conference hosted by TCHS. The week-long event also offered raffles, prizes and freebies to students who participated in the activities.
The Career Ready Conference was created to provide students with experiences in areas related to career readiness metrics including career awareness, career building, retention and entrepreneurship. The sessions held throughout the week were engaging and interactive. They taught students about career preferences, career research, resume writing, mock applications, and matchmaking. Through the work performed, students learned how to search for careers in and outside of Pennsylvania, salaries, certifications, education, and potential job openings. They also took home resources and information to guide them to the various options they will have after graduation.
TCHS seniors participated in a hands-on workshop led by school counselors and learning support instructors on how to create a post-secondary plan for college, trade school, workforce and education ‘army. Students then learned to prepare and dress for an interview and to create a portfolio showcasing their skills and experiences.
Additionally, all seniors were invited to attend a Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union Financial Reality Fair where they learned what real finances can look like as adults. Each senior was given a script and a salary, then had to budget for expenses that included a car, groceries, utilities, cell phones, cable, child care, health care, housing, a education and other amenities.
Great Valley High School TCHS criminal justice student Ciera Cooper really enjoyed learning budgeting. “I feel better prepared to save my money and put it to good use. I learned that I should put as much money as possible into my savings and only use it when absolutely necessary, ”Cooper said.
This interactive experience encouraged students to focus on their budget and learn ways to help them control their spending and future finances. “The cost of some things – like a water bill – surprises many students,” said Patricia McAllister, head of youth financial education at the Franklin Mint Federal Credit Union. Adding: “Through this fair, our hope is that students understand the importance of spending money. If they don’t have a clue of what’s going on with their finances, they’re going to be in trouble, so we’re trying to help them focus on budgeting.
