McHenry Community High School junior Makenah Garbuliniski has a tentative plan for after high school. Visiting the recent MCHS College and Career Expo is allowing her to put it into action.
Garbulinski, who recently moved to McHenry from Michigan, plans to study medical sonography. During the April 20 event, she was able to meet with representatives of McHenry County College to learn more about program offerings and the school’s relationship with Harper College in Palatine, which has a medical sonography program.
“I’m trying to stay local,” Garbulinski said, noting that she also has an interest in psychology and social work as career options.
With representatives from more than 100 schools, trade programs and other postsecondary institutions, the annual College and Career Expo gives McHenry High School students a chance to learn more about their options for “next steps” after high school.
Participating colleges and universities include Bradley University, Carthage College, Eastern Illinois University and McHenry County College.
In addition to showcasing 2-year and 4-year educational programs, the expo included information about military service, vocational trade programs, apprenticeships and much more.
Danny Parker, admissions representative for Universal Technical Institute, said he appreciated sharing information about his organization’s training programs for automotive, robotics, wind technology, and more. The school’s Lisle facility also has student housing for young people who don’t want to commute.
“It’s good to have options for everyone,” he said.
Staff Sgt. Braeden Yelland enlisted the help of McHenry students who have already committed to the Army Illinois National Guard to find other students who may want to learn more. The program provides training in a lot of different fields for young people who make a three- or six-year commitment of one weekend per month.
Among the benefits is 100 percent tuition to an Illinois state-funded college or university. The national guard also offers a variety of jobs, such as health care, culinary, mechanical and more. “There are so many avenues,” Yelland said.
Each student registered with the platform StriveScan, which can quickly share information with organizations each student visits. Below are those with the most student visits:
A mini College and Career Expo is being organized for the Freshman Campus on May 5.