College and career fair offers advice for futures

By Samantha Simonsen

The Muenster University Center burst with energy as college and career booths filled the area on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Girls State delegates attended the college and career fair hosted inside, where more than 20 booths of South Dakota colleges and careers set up.

From tech schools to the universities, no type of school was left out.

School representatives talked with girls about different majors, life on campus and available scholarships.

More than 400 girls attended the fair, which gave them a chance to explore potential fields of study.

Others learned about college sports, music, theater and more.

ALA S.D. Girls State Director Cheryl Hovorka wanted the career fair to happen.

“I wanted to give the girls an opportunity look into colleges here in the state. Having them here might inspire the girls to look into visiting the colleges that they liked here,” she said.

Hovorka coordinated the opportunity for girls to explore the idea of continuing their education or finding a career they enjoy.

Hovorka said she wished more of the military recruits were available to help girls  join the armed forces.

Delegates attending Girls State this week will soon head into their senior year and begin making decisions about careers and colleges.

Delegates interviewed by the Sacajawea Scroll enjoyed the fair as they chatted with counselors and recruiters.

Kyra Liebig, Washington, said her experience was helpful.

“The USD School of Education stood out to me with its program and gave me the idea to look into more,” she said.

Her favorite booth was IHelp, which offered the chance to partake in a drawing for a $1,000 scholarship.

A majority of delegates said it was a great opportunity.

USD hosted multiple booths to help girls with certain fields in mind.  Its law school, the education school and general education booths were available.

Mckenzy Raterman is the South Central South Dakota admission counselor for USD.

“I came to the fair because I wanted to connect with students, answer any questions they may have and represent USD,” Raterman said.