Empowering Futures: Join RGV LEAD's 23rd Annual Education and Career Expo
- RGV LEAD Team
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Every year, thousands of students in the Rio Grande Valley face a critical question: What comes next after high school? Choosing the right path can be overwhelming without clear guidance and access to opportunities. RGV LEAD understands this challenge and invites school districts across the region to participate in the 23rd Annual Education and Career Expo. This event connects students directly with postsecondary options and career pathways, helping them make informed decisions about their futures.
District staff: If you would like to register your students to attend, please use the link below.
What the Expo Offers Students
The Education and Career Expo is more than just a fair. It's a comprehensive event designed to open doors for students by providing:
Direct access to colleges and universities
Representatives from local and national institutions share information about programs, admissions, and financial aid.
Career exploration opportunities
Students meet professionals from various industries, learn about different jobs, and discover what skills are needed.
Hands-on workshops and demonstrations
Interactive sessions allow students to experience fields like healthcare, technology, and skilled trades firsthand.
Resources for financial planning
Experts offer guidance on scholarships, grants, and budgeting for education.
By attending, students gain clarity on their options, which can reduce anxiety and increase motivation to pursue higher education or training.
School Districts Participate
School districts play a vital role in preparing students for life beyond high school. Partnering with RGV LEAD for this expo offers several benefits:
Supports counselors and educators
The Expo event supplements school efforts by providing a centralized location for students to explore many options at once.
Encourages community involvement
Districts connect with local businesses, colleges, and organizations to build lasting partnerships.
Promotes equity in education
The expo ensures all students, regardless of background, have access to valuable information and resources.
Boosts student engagement
Exposure to real-world opportunities can inspire students to set goals and work toward them.
Participating districts demonstrate athe commitment to student success and community collaboration.
How Students Can Prepare for the Expo
To make the most of the event, students should come prepared. Here are some tips:
Research participating schools and employers
Knowing who will be there helps students focus on areas of interest.
Prepare questions
Asking about programs, career paths, and financial aid shows initiative and helps gather useful information.
Bring a notebook or device
Taking notes ensures students remember key details after the event.
Dress appropriately
Presenting oneself professionally can leave a positive impression on recruiters.
Follow up after the event
Contacting representatives or applying to programs soon after keeps momentum going.
Preparation turns the expo from a casual visit into a purposeful step toward future goals.
Examples of Past Success Stories
The impact of the RGV LEAD Education and Career Expo is clear through stories from previous attendees:
A student from Harlingen High School discovered a passion for nursing after speaking with healthcare professionals at the expo. She enrolled in a local nursing program and now works as a registered nurse.
Another student from McAllen found a scholarship opportunity through a university booth, which helped him afford college without debt.
A young person interested in technology attended workshops on coding and robotics, leading to an internship with a regional tech company.
These examples show how the expo can change lives by connecting students with opportunities they might not find otherwise.
How to Get Involved
School districts interested in participating can contact RGV LEAD to register and receive event details. Districts can also encourage teachers, counselors, and parents to support student attendance.
Students should check with their schools for registration deadlines and transportation options. Parents can help by discussing goals and encouraging active participation.
Looking Ahead
The 23rd Annual Education and Career Expo is a chance to open doors for the next generation. By bringing together schools, colleges, employers, and community organizations, RGV LEAD creates a space where students can explore, learn, and plan their futures with confidence.
Taking part in this event means investing in the potential of young people and the strength of the Rio Grande Valley community. Students who attend gain valuable insights and connections that can shape their career paths for years to come.
If you are part of a school district or know students ready to take the next step, consider joining this important event. The future starts with informed choices, and the Education and Career Expo is here to help make those choices clearer.