East Rockaway High School welcomed students in grades 9-12 to its annual Future Fair on Dec. 19, giving them a chance to explore what comes after graduation. The high school gym was filled with representatives from colleges, trade schools, employers, military branches, law enforcement and healthcare organizations – all there to answer questions and share information about different career directions and opportunities.

Students could talk with recruiters from the U.S. Army, U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy about military service. Healthcare representatives from Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital discussed careers in medicine and patient care. Local colleges including LIU and Molloy University set up tables to talk about their programs. Public service was represented through the Nassau County 4th Precinct, NYPD, State Troopers and East Rockaway Fire Department, while various employers such as Rolling River Day Camp, JCC of Oceanside, Sunny Atlantic Beach Club and Town of Hempstead highlighted training programs and summer job possibilities.

The counseling department created question guides for each grade level to help students approach the fair strategically. Freshmen were encouraged to explore broadly and see what catches their interest. Sophomores got prompts to start thinking seriously about their futures and how to prepare. Juniors worked on narrowing their focus and gathering specific details for college or career planning. Seniors used the fair to collect final pieces of information as they prepare for their next chapter.

The event gave students direct access to professionals across multiple fields, helping them see the range of paths available after high school. These conversations are part of how East Rockaway High School helps students make informed decisions about their futures.