The Laurel Business Institute and the Fayette Chamber of Commerce education council co-sponsored the 14th annual 8th grade career fair at the VFW Post 47 in Uniontown.
It was open to all eighth-grade students in Fayette County.
In addition to students from the six public schools, pupils from Rostraver, Mt. St. Carmel and St. Mary's of Uniontown attended.
"These students are getting ready for high school next year and this event can help them with course planning and scheduling," said Kathy Dowling, membership coordinator for the chamber.
The event featured dozens of informational displays and exhibits from schools, technical facilities and career options.
Students stopped at tables, asking representatives questions and, in many cases, receiving information for them to review later.
"These kids will all probably change their minds, career wise, three or four times, but this event gives them the opportunity to see what is available to them out there," said Ben Lipniskis of the Laurel Business Institute. "This can get them started to think about their different career options and maybe give them an idea of exactly what they might like to do after graduation."
Approximately 1,800 students filtered through the hall, visiting different displays and speaking with representatives.
In addition to the students being given the opportunity to visit with the numerous representatives, each school nominated one student to receive an Extra Effort award, given to a student who is conscientious and displays reasonability and maturity.
Riley Vargo was one of the recipients of the Extra Effort award, receiving it for Frazier School District.
Each school arrived at different times, allowing the students ample time to visit all the booths.
Some schools incorporated the event into their curriculums, having students do mini-interviews with representatives from fields of their choice.
More than 100 displays were featured.
"We have 64 tables set up and about 120 people from different careers giving up half their day to talk to these students, "Lipniskis said, "I think it's great that they volunteer their time to be here and to take an interest in the careers and futures of our young students here in Fayette County."
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