From 9am year 10 students from high schools across the Shoalhaven met business professionals to discuss career options and study pathways. 

There were more than 45 different business stalls at the event, many offering hands-on and interactive experiences from professions including those in defence, journalism, teaching and carpentry. 

“This is a day that aims to help young people and students think about their future,” head of campus Robbie Collins said.

The students attending are in the process of thinking about subject choices for years 11 and 12. 

For three hours the students met stallholders to discuss opportunities in the education, careers and work-experience. 

UOW journalism lecturer Shawn Burns said the expo was a great way for students to see the career and education paths available in the area.

“This event isn’t just about UOW,” he said. 

“The simple fact that we have local newspapers right here beside local politicians shows there is a wide range of careers available in the region.”

The line was long for students to speak with sports reporter Courtney Ward about careers in sports journalism. 

“I spoke with around 20 students who like sports and want to pursue a career writing in that area,” he said. 

“A lot of the students were really passionate about one sport and wanted to focus on that, but I explained they need to keep a broad mind in reporting. 

“As a sports journalist I write about a lot of different aspects and codes.”

Journalist Dayle Latham said the students were very enthusiastic. 

“There were a lot of excited faces,” she said. 

“The students found the entire expo very helpful for choosing subjects and getting ideas about their career paths.”