Students explore their options with ‘Pathways2Possibilities’ career expo

JACKSON, Tenn. — Local eighth graders are given the chance to explore possibilities for the future.

West Tennessee students gathered to learn more about how they can do just that at the 2nd annual ‘Pathways2Possibilities’ career expo Tuesday at the fairgrounds near downtown Jackson.

With many young people seeking careers as social media influencers, these local eighth graders have their sights set on making a difference in their community. The two day event brings more than 1,000 students each day from schools throughout West Tennessee so they can learn more about careers available to them in the future.

When asked about which career paths they see themselves following, students listed jobs like an orthopedic surgeon, engineer, real estate agent, nurse, veterinarian and orthodontist.

We spoke with a few representatives at the expo about how they hope to help give students a wide range of ideas for the future.

“Most at this age, when you ask them they say doctors, nurses. They don’t realize that the health care field has so many branches,” said Shellie Kosark, assistant professor of health sciences for Jackson State Community College.

With over 50 exhibitors set up, there were even booths to give students a hands-on experience of what to expect in the workforce.

“We also have a table for lab. So the kids are able to look through microscopes and look at the specimens so that’s cool. A lot of hands-on. We also have our EMT’s here so they are able to get in the ambulance and actually get into the health care field and see what it’s all about,” said Nakita Cain, West Tennessee Healthcare representative.

Organizers plan to host another career fair for students in August. The event is organized by United Way of West Tennessee and the Greater Jackson Chamber.

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