Students at Valencia College’s East Campus explored majors, connected with career advisors, and grabbed free pizza and Jeremiah’s Italian Ice during the Summer Kickoff event on May 29. This was a career-focused event designed to support student success both in their continuing education, and their journey in their careers.
Hosted by the Career Center, the Summer Kickoff event is part of an annual tradition aimed at helping students navigate career paths, transfer planning, professional development, and more.
“We offer services in career exploration, experiential learning, and transfer advising,” Cindy Oakley, Career Center Supervisor at Valencia East Campus, said. “This event gives students access to all those areas in one place, plus some fun.”
This was the eighth Summer Kickoff event that the Career Center hosted.
In previous years, attendance averaged around 110–120 students, and this year’s goal was to welcome 100 or more, which was a success.
The event featured various booths, including DirectConnect to UCF, City Year, Active Minds, and Phi Theta Kappa. One of the federal work-study students representing DirectConnect, Jeremiah Doss, who currently attends UCF, emphasized the importance of helping students understand the steps to transfer.
The Career Center also promoted its Summer Workshop Series which is held virtually every Wednesday. These Zoom-based sessions cover topics like resumé writing, LinkedIn, and professional emails.
For many students, the event was both educational and motivating. David Hurtado, a third-year student returning to Valencia after a five-year break, found value in the conversations and tools available. “They had this interest checklist that shows which majors align with your scores,” Hurtado said. “I’m still exploring, but this event really helps both with major decisions and next steps.”
Beyond the resources, the atmosphere helped students feel welcomed and have a good time. With free pizza and Italian ice, the event removed the intimidation often tied to career planning and encouraged students to learn and participate. “The more tools you have in your toolbox, the more likely you’ll reach success,” Hurtado added.
The Summer Kickoff is just one of many events hosted by the Career Center. Additional events similar to this one are planned for West and Osceola campuses later this summer. Throughout the year, the center also offers pop-up booths, open houses, and programming during National Career Development Month in November.
For students who missed the event or want ongoing help, the Career Center encourages drop-ins at Building 1, Room 265 on Valencia’s East Campus, or by visiting valenciacollege.edu/students/career-center to explore online tools, register for workshops, or schedule appointments for further coaching and assistance.
“No matter where you are in your journey—undecided, transferring, or job-ready—we have something to support your next step,” Oakley said.
