More than 1,200 attendees filled the OC Fair & Event Center for Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s (NMUSD) annual College & Career Fair on October 22, 2025, transforming the OC Fair & Event Center’s exhibition hall into a bustling hub of opportunity. 

By connecting middle and high school students and their families with colleges, universities, trade schools, and industry partners, the event showcased NMUSD’s commitment to preparing every student for success after graduation, no matter the path they choose.

“Preparing students for college and career success means giving them the tools to make informed choices,” said Keith Carmona, Director, Secondary Teaching and Learning. “This fair is about exploration — helping students connect what they’re learning today to the opportunities of tomorrow.”

This year’s fair featured representatives from universities across the country and abroad, as well as local two-year colleges, apprenticeship programs, and community organizations. Students wandered from booth to booth collecting materials, meeting admissions counselors, and learning about degree programs and career options that matched their interests.

In addition to exploring colleges, attendees also met professionals representing a wide range of industries. From healthcare and hospitality to business, technology, and public safety, exhibitors shared insights about the skills, education, and experiences that lead to success in their fields.

A highlight of the evening was the Pathway Playground, where students engaged in hands-on activities connected to the district’s 26 Career Technical Education (CTE) pathways. Elementary students were invited to explore interactive stations in areas such as robotics, engineering, broadcast and digital media, nursing, and computer science.

“It’s incredible to see students’ excitement as they begin to envision what’s next for them,” said Lisa Snowden, Coordinator II, Work-Based Learning.

Informational sessions designed to make postsecondary planning more accessible were offered in topics such as navigating financial aid, understanding the NCAA process for student-athletes, and earning college credits while in high school through dual enrollment. 

District volunteers at the event sported shirts designed by Yulissa Lopez, a digital media arts student from Newport Harbor High School. As the winner of the College & Career Fair T-Shirt Design Competition, Yulissa received her own custom shirt and a $50 gift card.

The annual College & Career Fair is one of many ways NMUSD supports its vision of inspiring every student to envision and achieve their future. Visit the NMUSD College and Career website to learn more. Additional photos from the event are available for download at no cost on the district’s online photo repository.