Shadow Ridge students recently had the opportunity to explore career pathways during visits to the College of Southern Nevada. The trips allowed students to tour different campuses, attend career-focused sessions, and learn more about programs available after graduation. Students visited multiple locations to see a variety of programs. During the two visits, students were able to attend sessions focused on specific career fields and interact with instructors and equipment used in those programs.
Shadow Ridge College and Career Counselor, Cassie Murray stated, “We visited the Charleston campus in January, and the North Las Vegas campus last week.”
Many of the sessions highlighted hands-on careers that students could pursue through CSN. Some of the most popular sessions included audio recording technology, automotive, film and videography, graphic communications, emergency medical technician and paramedic programs, fire technology, and veterinary nursing. These sessions allowed students to learn directly about the training required for each field. Another one of the standout experiences involved the radiation therapy technology program.
“The only thing that was frustrating was that some students weren’t able to attend the sessions they wanted since they were full, but I was able to see a radiation therapy technology session,” Murray said. “Students were able to use the machines in the radiation lab and they really enjoyed that. I think that, along with many others, were good sessions.”
For many students, the visit helped highlight the benefits of attending CSN, especially for those who prefer more interactive learning environments. Many of the programs focus on hands-on training, allowing students to practice the skills they would use in real careers rather than only learning through lectures. Murray explained that this style of learning can be especially helpful for students who are still exploring their options after high school.
“It is a great place for students who like to be hands-on in school,” Murray said. “CSN supports a lot of kids who aren’t sure what they want to do after they graduate, and they support those students throughout that time.”
As students begin thinking about their plans after graduation, programs like CSN and the Nevada Promise Scholarship can offer flexible and affordable options. Murray encourages students to keep their options open and take advantage of opportunities early, even if they are unsure about their final decision.
“Every year, seniors come in here and say that they aren’t going to CSN and they turn their noses up at it, And then this time of year, people are rolling in here all the time asking about the Nevada Promise Scholarship. So my word of advice is to all the upcoming seniors, is to apply for the scholarship at the front end. Just do it and leave it as a backup plan.”
