CollegeCon & Career Exploration Events Help Students Plan for the Future

Supporting Highline’s Future Ready commitment for Middle and High School Students

More than 200 local students and families explored college, career and training opportunities during CollegeCon, an annual Highline Public Schools event designed to help students plan for life after high school. 

During the event, students and families connected with colleges, training programs and community partners. They learned about admissions, financial aid and different postsecondary pathways. Students and families also had opportunities to ask questions and plan together. 

“These experiences create space for students and families to learn, ask questions and plan for the future together,” said Cynthia Morales, College & Career Specialist. “When families understand the options available, they can better support students as they make intentional choices.”

Students shared that the experience helped clarify next steps.

 

“This event helped me understand how to complete my High School and Beyond Plan and learn about my financial aid options for college,” said a Mount Rainier High School student.

CollegeCon is planned and hosted each year by Highline’s Secondary Success and College Readiness Department, whose work ensures students and families have clear, accurate information as they plan for the future. 

CollegeCon is one part of Highline’s broader Future Ready work, which also includes career exploration opportunities that begin in middle school and continue throughout a student’s secondary experience. 

Future Ready Starts in Middle School

Planning for the future starts before high school. Through 7th grade career exploration events, students begin learning about careers and how their interests connect to real‑world opportunities. Career Exploration Days take place at middle schools between April and June as part of Highline’s Future Ready work.

During these events, students rotate through small‑group sessions with community and business partners. Presenters share what their work looks like, the skills they use and the education or training their careers require. Students ask questions, complete a career exploration passport and reflect on what interests them.

These experiences give students time to explore before they are asked to make decisions. They help students connect school to real life and build confidence as they begin developing their High School and Beyond Plan. Families and schools work together to support students as they think about what comes after graduation.

Career exploration events are supported by local employers, higher education partners and community organizations. Partners include organizations such as the Port of Seattle, Federal Aviation Administration, Franciscan Health Virginia Mason, HealthPoint, Seattle Art Museum, University of Washington programs and skilled trades and technology partners.

Together, CollegeCon and middle school career exploration help students connect learning to real life and plan for the future they choose.