High school students from around the Upper Peninsula got a taste of what an academic or career path based on their interests, strengths and ambitions could look like through the U.P. Shift College and Career Event, a MiKickoff program held at Northern Michigan University’s Jacobetti Complex on Nov. 6.
Brimley High School senior Darren Johnson said he was interested in learning more about HVAC programming at Northern, citing a career in the trades as an opportunity to make a good living. He said he was looking forward to being on NMU’s campus and being able to see what programs the university had to offer.
“I do think it's helpful, especially for some of us that have never been to these places before,” Johnson said. “Getting the opportunity to see what they have, what they offer, the people here, opportunities that you can get while you're here, I think that's a good opportunity for most of us.”
Created by the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement and Potential, the event was part of a regional series designed to help high school students without a plan to further their education connect their interests, strengths and ambitions to clear next steps after high school. It was the only one scheduled to be held in the Upper Peninsula.
“Events like these are so important for high school students to actually see how their interests can drive their college and career choices, especially in the U.P.,” said Jeff Korpi, NMU vice president for Northern Student Experience. “My hope is that these students walk out of today’s event having learned about a program at NMU that aligns with their strengths, and that they know how to get the education required for success.”
The day included sessions on mechanical and electrical engineering, rehabilitation science, K-12 teaching, computer science, psychology, mathematics, nursing, fisheries and wildlife management, automotive services, welding, controlled environment agriculture and construction management, among others. Each session involved a hands-on learning experience.
The event also included an Industry and Academic Expo, giving students the opportunity to speak with faculty and industry professionals in related career fields.
MiLEAP Director Beverly Walker-Griffea stressed the importance of post-secondary credentials to successful careers that keep young people living and working Mihcigan.
“We want to ensure that they have options, know what colleges are doing, what are the key majors that will get them good-paying jobs and that getting a credential really is the forecast for the future to do well,” Walker-Griffea said.
When the series is over, MiLEAP will have partnered with five colleges and universities to host MI Kickoff events, providing opportunities for area high school students to experience hands-on learning in high-demand career fields throughout the state.