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Career Expos


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Attending a Career Expo

Attending a Career Expo is a great opportunity to explore education options beyond a traditional four-year program, and to consider other pathways toward a certification or degree. Career technical education (CTE) builds industry knowledge and develops soft skills through hands-on learning and apprenticeships. A Career Expo hosts representatives from trade and vocational programs, information and technology institutes, design and art academies, culinary schools, military enlistment, and community colleges offering associate degrees and transfer pathways to 4-year programs — with many options to fit your academic, financial, and social needs.

How to Prepare

Faring well at a Career Expo

Before the Expo

  • Find out which organizations will attend, and write down the ones you want to learn about.
  • Research organizations ahead of time, especially ones you haven't considered before.
  • Create a short list of unique questions to ask reps at every table, so you can compare options.
  • Both students and parents are welcome, but let students do most of the talking (or walk around separately).
  • Bring your list of organizations & questions, a pen, a notebook, and a bag for business cards and brochures.
  • Consider pre-printed address labels with your info to save time filling out the same details at each table. (Make sure your email won't embarrass you — reps will see it!)

At the Expo

  • Survey the room or check the map, and plan your route.
  • Visit reps and ask your questions.
  • Write down your impressions and answers before moving to the next table, while it's still fresh.
  • Leave time to browse — don't just focus on "known" options. You might find one you'd never considered.

When You Get Home

  • Ask yourself which options stood out, and why.
  • Organize what you collected while it's fresh in your mind, and review your notes.
  • Recycle materials from organizations you've ruled out.
  • Research the options you're still considering further — explore their website, contact them, or plan a visit.
  • Still have questions? Meet with your College & Career Center Specialist to review your findings and ask anything else.
Come Prepared

Questions to ask at a Career Expo

  • Do you offer my planned career pathway?
  • Are there different ways to get into my chosen field?
  • How easy is it to change direction?
  • What key skills is your industry looking for?
  • Are there minimum entrance requirements?
  • Are there any fitness or other skills required?
  • What high school classes should I focus on for this career path?
  • What's your average class size? (How big is your largest class?)
  • How long will it take to complete training?
  • How much will it cost?
  • Are there scholarships or financial aid available?
  • Do you help students find internships or jobs in their field?
  • Do you offer academic counseling and support services?
  • How easy is it to get there from the Bay Area?
  • Are there housing options?
  • How soon will I start earning a salary, and what can I expect to start at?
  • What sort of hours will I be working?
  • Are there options to advance in this career later on?
  • Are there reasons I shouldn't consider this career?
  • What's the best thing about this career?
Download this worksheet to take with you →

Helpful tips when asking questions

  • To learn the main interests of most students, ask "what are the most popular programs?" rather than "how many people are in the freshman class?"
  • If considering a particular CTE program, ask how many students take it, what courses you'd take in your first year, and how much technical training it offers. Avoid "how good is this program?" — reps will promote all programs.
  • If you're undecided, ask what services and support are available to help you explore different courses of study.
  • Other good topics: extracurricular activities, what kind of students the school is looking for, and what percentage of students receive financial aid.

Thank you to the CUHSD Ed Foundation for the information above. Page content is adapted from the original as written by Jennifer Gross, Copyright © 2003 National Association for College Admission Counseling, and the College Board.