Career expo chance to pick up job ideas

Hundreds of students will hopefully get some new ideas for their future at the expo.

Hundreds of students will pick up ideas and hopefully be inspired about what career path to take this week.

Hawke's Bay's 21st annual careers expo begins today.

Susan Macdonald is in her first year co-ordinating the expo following the death of Richard Edmunds, who ran the expo for the past 20 years.

"It has always been a well-run event with a good reputation and I will hopefully continue that trend," Ms Macdonald said.

More than 60,000 Hawke's Bay students and members of the public have attended the expo since its inception, she said.

She had found the role rewarding and encouraged locals to take advantage of the exhibition.

"We have about 60 to 70 exhibitors coming from all over the country: academic, trades, the forces, overseas exchange schemes to name a few. Students will be awarded scholarships and explore possibilities from a number of providers under one roof," Ms Macdonald said.

Former Sacred Heart student Micheala Simpson, 18, was awarded the Career Expo Scholarship in 2014 and has fond memories of her experience.

"I spoke to various universities for an honest discussion about alumni, courses and facilities," she said.

She received $1000, which contributed to her textbooks and her long-term savings plan.

Micheala's ultimate dream is to be a radio presenter.

Ms Simpson has some wise words for students attending the expo: "Go in loaded with questions to ask the reps, go in with an open mind and look at all that's on offer."

Winners are students who demonstrate ambition and identify a clear career path.

"Whether undertaking a diploma, degree, polytech or university, all students displaying the right attitude are considered," Ms Macdonald said. The public session is today from 4.30pm to 7.30pm.

Hawke's Bay Today has been the event's naming sponsor for 15 years.