On Feb. 14, East Rockaway High School hosted its annual Future Fair in the high school gym, providing students in grades 9-12 with a valuable opportunity to explore post-high school options. Representatives from colleges, trade schools, places of employment, the military, law enforcement, and healthcare organizations attended the event, offering insights into various career paths and summer employment opportunities.

The Future Fair featured a diverse array of participants, including the U.S. Army, U.S. Marines, U.S. Navy and Hofstra University’s ROTC Program for students interested in military service. Local employment and training opportunities were also highlighted, such as the Lifeguard Training Program, Rolling River Day Camp and TSA at JFK Airport. Additionally, students had the chance to connect with representatives from healthcare institutions like Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, as well as local colleges, including Adelphi University and Molloy University. Law enforcement agencies such as the Nassau County 4th Precinct, New York State Troopers and the East Rockaway Fire Department were also in attendance, providing students with information about careers in public service.

To help students make the most of the event, the East Rockaway counseling department provided question guides tailored to each grade level, ensuring a structured and purposeful experience. Freshmen were encouraged to explore different opportunities and discover their interests, while sophomores were guided to start thinking about their future and ways to prepare. Juniors focused on narrowing their interests and gathering specific information for college or career planning, and seniors used the fair to collect final details and prepare for their next steps.

The Future Fair was an invaluable experience for students, helping them engage with professionals across various fields and gain a deeper understanding of the paths available after high school. By facilitating these meaningful connections, East Rockaway High School continues to support students in making informed decisions about their futures.