By: Kathryn Hodgins, Content and Public Relations Specialist, Florida Virtual School 

Are you a high school student eager to explore career options? Look no further! Florida Virtual School (FLVS) is hosting a series of online career workshops throughout February to celebrate Career and Technical Education (CTE) month.

These workshops, guided by FLVS teachers and support staff, are designed to be engaging, informative, and most importantly, fun! Then, on Feb. 27, students can attend our virtual Career Fair and Expo and hear from industry professionals from across the state for an afternoon of networking and career exploration. 

Let's dive into each virtual career workshop and what students can expect:

1. Tiny Habits, Big Changes

Date and Time: Monday, February 3 from 12:15 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Kickstart Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month with a career workshop all about Atomic Habits, based on the book by James Clear. Students will learn how making small, consistent life changes can lead to remarkable results. Plus, they’ll discover strategies to build good habits and break bad ones for long-term success in both personal and future professional life.

2. Resume Building Bootcamp

Date and Time: Tuesday, Feb. 4 from 12:30 p.m. - 1 p.m.

In this workshop, students will learn what to include in a resume, how to format it, and tips to make it stand out. Students will also receive a checklist and other resources to help build a strong resume. Whether students are interested in applying for a part-time job, an internship, or college, a well-crafted resume is the first step to success.

3. Xello: College and Career Planning

Date and Time: Wednesday, Feb. 5 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

Learn about Xello, the newest career planning and work-based learning coordination provider. Xello empowers every student to design a personalized plan for the future by providing a high-quality career development experience that’s modern and interactive.

4. Resume Building Bootcamp

Date and Time: Wednesday, Feb. 12 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

In this workshop, students will learn what to include in a resume, how to format it, and tips to make it stand out. Students will also receive a checklist and other resources to help build a strong resume. Whether students are interested in applying for a part-time job, an internship, or college, a well-crafted resume is the first step to success.

5. Interview Prep Bootcamp

Date and Time: Thursday, Feb. 13 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.  

Interviews can be nerve-wracking, which is why this interview skills workshop will provide students with tips and tricks, which start with understanding the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This technique will help students structure their responses effectively, showcasing their skills and experiences in the best light. 

6. Personal Finance

Date and Time: Tuesday, Feb. 18 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

Hosted by the USF Federal Credit Union, students will learn fundamental financial planning skills such as budgeting, saving, wise spending, tax planning, credit and debt management, and investment. If students want to dig deeper into personal finance after the workshop, they can check out our Personal Finance and Money Management course. This course also satisfies Florida’s personal financial literacy graduation requirement. 

7. Budgeting: Managing Your Finances Wisely

Date and Time: Wednesday, Feb. 19 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

Financial literacy is a crucial skill for everyone. Our interactive budgeting workshop will teach students how to manage money effectively, plan for expenses, and save for the future. 

8. CTE Opportunities Expo

Date and Time: Thursday, Feb. 20 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

Learn about the 11 career and technical education programs of study that FLVS offers. These programs of study are a progression of industry-focused classes that create accessible pathways to gaining the skills and certifications you need for college and career success. 

9. Exploring Military Careers

Date and Time: Friday, Feb. 21 from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

Are you interested in a career in the military? Students can attend our military recruiting session to learn about the various opportunities available. They’ll also hear from recruiters about the benefits, challenges, and pathways to a rewarding career in the armed forces. This session is perfect for students considering a future in service.

10. Ready, Set, Network: Career Fair and Expo Prep

Date and Time: Tuesday, Feb. 25 from 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Take the first step toward a dream career!

These workshops equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to prepare for the Career Fair and Expo and take the first step towards a dream career! Check out our CTE Month webpage for more information and workshop access. 

Career Fair and Expo: Meet with industry professionals on Feb. 27

Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the second annual virtual Career Fair and Expo, on Feb. 27 from noon until 4 p.m. This exciting event will be similar to last year's successful fair, offering students the chance to connect with professionals from various fields, attend informative sessions, and explore a wide range of career opportunities. It's the perfect way to put all the skills students learned in the career workshops to the test and take a big step toward the future.

For additional resources, check out our Career and Technical Education courses. These courses are designed to provide students with real-world skills and knowledge for high-demand fields. With 11 programs of study, which are a progression of industry-focused classes, students will gain valuable experience and can earn industry certifications. It’s a fantastic way for students to prepare for their future careers while still in high school.