Work in the Real World

2008 Summary:

"Work in the Real World" is a popular event that is held every year for high school students to learn more about careers in manufacturing, logistics and healthcare industries. This year the event was held in Fall 2008 at both Illinois Valley Community College (IVCC) in Oglesby and at Sauk Valley Community College (SVCC) in Dixon. Over 300 students attended this event and over 22 businesses participated! Students took a tour of the college, met with representatives from the businesses and attended break-out sessions where they learned about hiring practices, education requirements and job duties. When students were asked if they would recommend others to attend "Work in the Real World" next year, this is what they said:

"It was a good opportunity to learn about careers" ; "It was fun"; "It gives you a good start on your career"; "It gives you good options for your future"; "It was interesting and informative"; "It was cool"; "It was exciting".

At IVCC:

At SVCC:

Next year's event is already being planned and it looks to be another big success. Would you like to be part of it? Contact a career advisor at BEST to find out how you can sign up to attend.

Here's some of last year's success!!!

2007 "WITRW" held at IL Valley Community College...

and also at Sauk Valley Community College.

On September 12, 2008, this year's "Work in the Real World” was held at Illinois Valley Community College (Oglesby) and on October 17, 2008, "Work in the Real World" was held at Sauk Valley Community College (Dixon) and attended by approximately 300 high school students.

Representatives from Clover Technology, Double D Express, IVCH Physical Therapy, JC Whitney, Mendota Hospital, PetsMart, St. Margaret’s Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital, Vactor Manufacturing and the Spring Valley Wal-Mart Distribution Center were at Celebrations to talk about jobs at their businesses and what it takes to get one.

At SVCC representatives from E. E. Etnyre & Company, LOPAREX, CGH Medical Center, KSB Hospital, Wahl Clipper, Sterling Wal-Mart Distribution Center, Mercy Nursing/Burton Placement, SVCC Truckdriver Training, Health Education, and Manufacturing Programs, Freeport Health Network and Sterling-Rock Falls Clinic also discussed jobs and hiring practices with the students.