When it comes to first-hand learning opportunities, nothing presents itself more clearly than attending trade shows. In fact, attending a trade show or expo will open your eyes in ways they haven’t seen before.
To illustrate, a student interested in technology might attend the Camera Corner Technology Expo 2018. In fact, this company has been hosting this technology expo for over 30 years. One of the best ways to learn about the career path of your choice is to be exposed to industry leaders and mentors who can motivate students and encourage them to pursue their dreams.
It’s rejuvenating
Going to conferences and expos can be energizing. You’re in a large facility with many of the movers and shakers–and newcomers–in the industry. Everyone is excited about their product and service and ready to show the world just how great it is. It is a wonderful opportunity for students to see first-hand how goods are developed, made and promoted from ideation to final product.
Interacting with business owners, sales people, and development teams gives students as first-hand look at how goods and services start at the design level and moves forward to the display level. Talking to owners of the businesses themselves will give students insights they could not get just from perusing websites on their own.
Plus, there is always a lot of energy and excitement in the air at expos, helping students feel even more rejuvenated about their desired career.
What you can expect at an expo
When you attend an expo, expect tables of various businesses there to raise awareness about their companies. Nothing is more rewarding than connecting with and mentoring a student. As a result, students can find many opportunities for finding a new mentor who can guide them in the direction of their dream career.
In addition, students may meet representatives of the company who can tell them exactly what it takes to get hired there, such as the hiring and application process.
Hang out with like-minded people
Students may feel alone about their desired career path. On the other hand, attending an industry expo can be both refreshing and inspirational.
It’s a change from the daily routine of the classroom. And, there will be many people there who love what they do. You’ll find they were once just like you.
It can turn into the field trip to top all other field trips. It gives students a different perspective, and a showcase that makes products and services truly invigorating.
Make sure to do your research
For students to get the most out of an expo, it is important to do some research. Don’t go there and become a wallflower; it’s crucial to interact. Find the attendee list, and let students pick out the people they want to connect with the most.
Then, once there, find those people or ask when they will be available. It’s important to think about what you want to take away from the conference and plan accordingly. It would be difficult to meet every attendee, but plan to go out and meet a few.
Final thought
Going to an expo can really help students get an insider’s view of their desired career and industry. It’s also a way for them to find some mentors and feel more motivated and inspired.
