The PACE Perspective: College Mini Fairs

October 3, 2024
PACE staff tabling at a College Mini Fair.

October 3, 2024 – The PACE team recently visited the thirteen northernmost schools in New Hampshire to participate in College Mini Fairs, an annual event series held in September organized by the New Hampshire College & University Council. With over ten colleges and universities in attendance, the PACE team helped guide students toward the colleges that aligned with their interests in post-secondary education.

PACE focuses on the various pathways that would be suitable for a student’s career and educational goals. Both students and staff welcomed the support and perspectives that PACE provided at the Mini Fairs about exploring options for life after high school, including pathways for students who were unsure about college.

PACE Coordinator Jennifer Gilbert and School Safety Officer Mr. Louis Babin at the College Mini Fair in Littleton.
PACE Coordinator Jennifer Gilbert and School Safety Officer Mr. Louis Babin at the College Mini Fair in Littleton.

While many students recognized the benefits of earning a college degree, some students expressed concerns about taking on debt. Several students showed interest in trade professions such as welding, while others were drawn to careers in nursing and marine biology. There was also significant interest in creative fields like art, acting, and music. For these students, the PACE team encouraged creative thinking about how to support themselves financially while pursuing their dreams.

To further the post-secondary success of students, PACE is offering programs like their Future Ready Workshops, which focus on building essential skills for success after high school, as well as career exploration initiatives that help students identify potential career paths. These programs aim to equip students with the tools and knowledge they need to pursue their goals, whether through college, entry into the workforce, military service, or alternative pathways. By continuing to offer tailored support, PACE remains committed to helping every student navigate their future with confidence.