George Mason University held its expanded Education Careers Week in February, according to an April 29 announcement. The event was organized by University Career Services and offered a week of programming for students interested in teaching, human development, or careers working with children.
The initiative aimed to help students connect with potential employers and explore various career paths in education. Activities included workshops, panel discussions, a networking mixer, and on-campus recruitment opportunities where students could interview directly with education employers. At least four participating students received job offers as a result of the event.
Education Careers Week concluded with a visit to the Fairfax County Public Schools Gatehouse Administration Center in Falls Church. This collaboration allowed participants to meet administrative and human resources professionals from one of the nation’s largest school districts. Students learned about hiring processes, interview strategies, and professional development programs such as the Great Beginnings Summer Institute.
Graduate student Jia Liu said, “I loved learning about the different career paths and trajectories. There was no linear path, which I thought was interesting and inspiring.”
Faculty members, staff, parents, and alumni contributed as panelists and moderators throughout the week. Saskia Campbell, executive director of University Career Services at George Mason University said: “The George Mason community came together to make Education Careers Week a success. That collaboration made it possible to expand our programming and networking opportunities for students.”
Attendees represented various majors including education, business, government, STEM fields and more; half were graduate students. Graduate student Valeria Alejandra Reyes-Chain said: “I decided to attend Education Careers Week to gather information about the type of education career I wanted to pursue. I gained valuable insights that guided me throughout the job application process.”
Organizers highlighted that career growth in education involves continuous learning across roles both inside and outside classrooms. The event also emphasized community support among students and alumni pursuing meaningful work.
