By Cate Meister
The Fountain Valley High School (FVHS) College and Career Center is open to students seeking help with their post-high school plans. The center, located in the back of the library, has been in operation since the beginning of the semester, but college and career specialist Chloe Orel has worked to continue its development.
The center received new furniture, including chairs, bookcases and tables, and Orel said they are in the process of introducing armchairs for students. The center will also host informational resources for students.
“My goal is to have a scholarship board, job board [and] summer program board—so kind of like a one-stop area for students to find their resources,” Orel said.
Students will have access to a wide variety of services, including information about both two-year and four-year colleges, military pathways, financial aid, scholarships, dual enrollment courses and career options.
Orel is available to answer questions and assist students with their post-high school planning from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m, although she noted that the best time for students to meet with her is during lunch or before and after school. Guidance clerk Lesa Sorenson can also help students during this period.
This semester, Orel has placed emphasis on career-oriented informational sessions.
“Once a month I try to do ‘Lunch and Learns’ for students who are thinking of a non-traditional four year pathway,” Orel said. “So we’ve already [covered] automotive tech. We’re going to do culinary arts. This month, and next month, we’re doing construction.”
In the fall, Orel plans to focus more on college application information, covering topics like the FAFSA and hosting college representative visits.
With the vast range of assistance the center provides for its students, Orel emphasized that it is a “multipurpose space.” Going forward, she hopes to destigmatize two-year options, trade school, gap years and immediate careers for students, noting these pathways are valid choices for students.
“I hope students will feel more comfortable with asking questions and talking about different opportunities and [know] that a four year school isn’t the only option,” Orel said.
Students can access more information about the College and Career Center via the FVHS website or by following @fvhscollege_career on Instagram.
