Career Expo 2003 slated for Feb. 13 and 14

Scott Csernyik

1/21/2003 12:00:00 AM

Helping maintain a cultural balance while pursuing higher education opportunities has been the primary focus of an annual event structured to help Native students forge career paths.

Career Expo 2003 will take place Feb. 13 and 14 at the Mt. Pleasant Holiday Inn. The theme for this year's exposition is "Nurturing Knowledge and Growth Through Cultural Balance." The event is attended by about 200 Native American students from across the state.

Besides participating in culturally relevant workshops, the students have the opportunity to meet with representatives from various state colleges and universities.

"We want the youth to know that the educational process does not have to end when you graduate from high school," explained Higher Education Coordinator Sharon Skutt. "You can get goals related to higher education, while maintaining a cultural balance."

Keynote speaker will be Arnold Thomas (Shoshone/Paiute), a motivational speaker who travels throughout the country promoting the intervention and prevention of suicide.

"The philosophy behind the Career Expo is that even though you continue your education and pursue career opportunities, this doesn't mean that you leave your culture and values behind-you take them with you," explained Skutt.

For more information about the event, contact the Higher Education Department staff at (989) 775-4506.