Career Jam™ Explore at Hudson Valley Community College

What is Career Jam™ Explore?

Career Jam™ Explore is an immersive career exploration event for all 8th and 9th grade students, regardless of academic standing or track. Our unique approach bridges the gap between the classroom and the workforce, igniting curiosity about local opportunities and the diverse industry pathways that lead to rewarding careers in our region.

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The Experience​

• Student Exploration Survey: Completed before the event, this online survey maps each student's natural strengths to the specific career clusters on the floor, providing a personal roadmap for their day.

• Prep Rally: Our team kicks things off with a live DJ and interactive challenges designed to build student confidence and spark excitement for the day ahead.

• Exploration Floor: Students engage directly with professionals from 14 nationally recognized career clusters through hands-on activities that highlight in-demand regional skills.

• Campus Tour: Hosted at local colleges to give students early exposure to post-secondary environments, with optional campus tours available.

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Why It Matters for Schools & Community

We believe every student is part of something bigger than themselves. Career Jam™ Explore is a partner in student success, aligning with NYS Learning Standards and the NYS Portrait of a Graduate. By connecting personal interests to local industry, we empower students to become Global Citizens, future-focused leaders whose unique talents will eventually fuel the success and growth of our entire community.

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Career Jam™ is CoSer eligible via BOCES ​​

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Get a glimpse of all the action at Career Jam Explore in this recap video from our HVCC event!

Hear from students, educators, and industry leaders! 

 

 

 

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Due to high demand and limited space, submitting the registration form is considered a commitment to attend Career Jam. By registering, you are reserving space for your students and are expected to confirm your final student count no later than Friday, September 18. After this deadline, you will be financially responsible for at least 85% of the students you reserved, even if your actual attendance is lower. This policy is in place because Career Jam invests significant resources months in advance to create an impactful experience for every participant, and accurate numbers are essential to deliver the best event possible. Registration closes Friday, September 18 (or earlier if we reach capacity), and space is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Thank you for helping us ensure that every interested student has the opportunity to imagine their future through Career Jam!

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Exhibitors:
 

• Engagement Matters - Every exhibitor booth should include a hands-on component to enhance the students' learning experience.
   

• Diversity Matters - It’s important for students to see working professionals that look like them. Diversity among company representatives is strongly encouraged.
   

• Being Present Matters - Make sure a company representative is present for the entirety of the Exploration Floor time. Please do not leave your booth unattended.
   

• Participation Matters - Students will walk the floor with scavenger hunt cards to encourage engagement with the employers. Sign off on their cards to verify they stopped by!
   

If you have any questions about the event, please email connect@career-jam.com.​​