What’s next? Students closer to the answer

The Yuma Union High School District, taking a vested interest in their students, decided to hold what can only be described as a “super job fair”. The event combined a job fair with an education fair and brought several of the key players to one place.

Confused students and eager parents filled the Raider gymnasium at Cibola High School to see just what’s in store for them come the day after graduation. Standing in the entryway the view was overwhelming with booths showcasing a variety of possibilities. Right as you step in the one thing that immediately catches your attention is the U.S. Marine Corps. Their booth had a pull-up bar set square in the middle of it. For some, the bar was a challenge. But for others, their focus was pushed elsewhere.

Several colleges and universities were on hand to show students what life is like both outside of Yuma County and inside for those wanting to stick closer to home. Members from the Yuma Police Department, Yuma County Sheriff’s Office, and the Yuma Fire Department were all on hand to answer students and parents question on what someone could expect if they went into public service.

We spoke to Gila Ridge senior Carlos Torres who told us that he plans on continuing his education and that he wishes they had something like this his freshman year. He expressed that those students yet to decide their fate should take advantage of events like this.

Daphne Nievez, a freshman at Kofa High School, shares Torres’ gratitude for the event and said that this was eye-opening for her. Nievez said that she hasn’t decided on a career but said, “I want to be great at something and make my parents proud, you know”.

The district plans on hosting more events like this. Their next one scheduled for October 2019 at Gila Ridge High School.