Rachel O'Malley
McKay Student Ambassador
Elementary Education
Becoming a teacher is more than just securing a job at any available school—it’s about finding the right place to make a lasting impact, inspire, and serve. On February 13th, BYU hosted an Education Career Fair in the Wilkinson Garden Court. Education career fairs are an ideal opportunity for students pursuing teaching or other education-related professions to get answers to questions regarding jobs after college. Whether you're about to graduate or still an undergraduate, the Education Fair serves as a gateway to discovering career opportunities and learning more about the teaching profession.
Imagine walking into a room lined with booths, each staffed by representatives eager to share information about their school districts and available job opportunities. School districts from across Utah, as well as from states like Texas, California, and Wyoming, were present. Representatives from both public and private schools were actively seeking passionate educators, and there was even a designated space for on-the-spot interviews. Attendees could connect with hiring schools, explore various teaching positions, review different salary schedules, and gain valuable tips for standing out in the job market.
As a sophomore majoring in Elementary Education, I found the career fair to be both fascinating and insightful. The idea of job hunting had always seemed daunting to me, and I dreaded thinking about life after graduation. However, attending the Education Career Fair helped me realize that exploring job opportunities can be an exciting and engaging experience. I discovered that finding a job after college isn’t as intimidating as it seems when there are so many resources available to help. I also learned how to build an effective resume that stands out when applying to different elementary teaching positions.
At the fair, I enjoyed chatting with various representatives and learning about what their schools had to offer. Teachers, counselors, and principals were there, ready to answer questions and provide support. I appreciated hearing about the benefits of working in different districts, including salaries, locations, incentive bonuses, and growth opportunities. Representatives also shared insights about classroom sizes, mentor programs, community support, district cultures, and other job perks.
For example, teachers from the Nebo School District described their competitive medical benefits, in-house health clinic, and free fitness center for employee wellness. A representative from the Douglas County School District emphasized their district’s commitment to fostering a positive culture where education is both fun and effective, with the belief that joy is contagious. A principal representing Arizona charter schools explained their mission to provide the best educational experience to as many students as possible in a moral and create a wholesome environment. At every booth I was able to compare salary schedules and almost every representative affirmed that teacher salaries are on the rise.
One of my favorite interactions was with Shannon Wombs from the Lyon County School District in Northern Nevada. Her kindness and patience in answering my questions helped boost my confidence about the job search process. As we chatted, we joked about the unpredictability of where life takes you and the importance of keeping an open mind when looking for a job. The entire room was filled with people like Shannon—welcoming, supportive, and eager to help. Even as a sophomore, I felt valued, and the representatives were more than willing to answer my questions and guide me through the job application process.
Attending the BYU Education Career Fair was an incredible experience. It provided me with valuable insights into the job search process and helped ease my concerns about finding a career in education. For anyone considering a future in teaching, I highly recommend attending the next Education Career Fair—you might just find the perfect place to start your journey in education.
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