Georgetown County School District (GCSD) eighth-grade students participated in Pathways to Possibilities (P2P), presented by the Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation, on January 14 and 15 at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center.
Pathways to Possibilities is an interactive career exploration experience designed to help eighth graders link their passions to a paycheck. The event introduces students to a wide variety of career opportunities through hands-on learning and meaningful conversations with professionals. Students learn what daily work looks like in different industries, along with the education and training required to pursue those careers.
Professionals representing 19 career pathways—aligned with national and state departments of education—created interactive activities that allowed students to explore fields ranging from skilled trades and healthcare to technology, public service, business, and more.
The two-day expo welcomed more than 6,000 eighth graders from 10 counties, including Clarendon, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Georgetown, Horry, Lee, Marion, Marlboro, and Williamsburg.
Deputy Superintendent Sherri Forrest emphasized the importance of giving students meaningful exposure to future careers at an early age.
“Pathways to Possibilities is a powerful opportunity for our eighth graders to connect their interests and strengths with real career pathways,” Forrest said. “When students can interact with professionals and experience hands-on learning, they gain a clearer understanding of what their future could look like—and the steps they can take now to reach their goals.”
In addition to exploring the exhibitor floor, Georgetown County students also participated in an extended experience through Junior Achievement’s JA Mobile Park. This mobile, pop-up city allowed students to step into real-life scenarios while practicing budgeting, decision-making, and career planning.
Superintendent Dr. Bethany A. Giles thanked the community partners, exhibitors, and volunteers who helped create a meaningful experience for students.
“This event is more than a career expo—it’s a moment that helps students see themselves in the future,” Giles said. “We are grateful to the Frances P. Bunnelle Foundation and to every business, exhibitor, and volunteer who invested their time and energy into our students. Experiences like P2P inspire confidence, spark curiosity, and help students understand that their dreams can become real goals with the right plan and support.”
GCSD appreciates the strong partnerships that made Pathways to Possibilities possible and looks forward to continuing to provide engaging opportunities that prepare students for success in high school, college, careers, and beyond.
