For Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago (BGCC) member Josh, it is never too early to start thinking about his post-high school plans.

Though only 14 years old, he attended BGCC’s second annual Post-Secondary Fair, where he spoke to several colleges about his plans to enter the medical field when he graduates.

“I know it is really early in my high school career, but I am looking forward to staying in touch with these universities as I advance through high school,” Josh said.

Josh was one of more than 100 Club members who attended the Post-Secondary Fair hosted at BGCC’s James R. Jordan Club. There were colleges, universities, trade schools, and many companies and organizations to provide career pathway opportunities throughout the gym.

“No matter what you want to do after high school, there is a pathway for you,” said Maya Pitts, BGCC’s College and Career Manager. “It was important to us to showcase to our youth that there is no single solution to achieving their dreams. If they want to go to college, great. If you want to start your career, great. We just want to show them all the opportunities and options out there so they can begin planning for their future.”

Some vendors included Marquette University, Indiana University, City Colleges of Chicago, Pepsi, Nuveen, ComEd, Laughlin Constable, Motion, ITW, Abercrombie & Kent, and many more!

Josh, currently a 4.0 GPA student, was drawn most to Midwestern Career College, which focuses on career-focused programs and technical training. He said he was not aware of them before attending the fair, and he looks forward to keeping his grades up, so he has countless college options available.

“We are thrilled at the turnout we had, both vendors and students at our fair,” Pitts said. “It is imperative we continue to expose our youth to opportunities they may otherwise may not know about to set them up for a successful future.”

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