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On Tuesday, October 18, high school students descended on the University at Buffalo campus for the first ever Careers in Education Conference. Students from throughout Western New York who expressed an interest in a career in education were invited to attend. Registration for the conference filled quickly, swelling the event to more than one hundred and fifty students representing eighteen school districts.

The conference opened with a keynote address from Alden High School chemistry teacher, Mike Domino. His engaging presentation centered around finding your purpose and how a career in teaching has impacted his life both inside and outside of the classroom.

Students then chose to attend one of three panel discussions. Teacher prep students, new teachers and veteran teachers shared their experiences and challenges in their careers. The panelist’s honesty and candid responses to questions gave students invaluable insight and perspective.

Following lunch, students networked with area colleges. The conference was made possible through the partnership of Buffalo State, University at Buffalo, Canisius College, Niagara University, Erie Community College, Niagara County Community College and Erie 1 BOCES. This partnership was formed in response to the well-documented shortage of teachers across the country. Colleges are coming together to provide support and programming for students who are interested in a career path in education.

The day wrapped up with students attending a final panel focused on the various spaces within a school they could work. One panel spoke about teaching core content; subjects like math, science and history. Another panel spoke about “specials,” including music, art and health. The final option was for students who would like to work in education, but not as a teacher. These panelists included a speech therapist, social worker and a school psychologist.

Overall, the day was a success. Students explored the options available to them if they choose a career in education after high school. They made connections with college programs and potential future colleagues alike. In a post-conference survey, students responded that they were 19% more likely to consider a career in education than they were before attending.