CareerFest 2.0: How APIA Scholars Is Supporting College-to-Career Success

At APIA Scholars, we’ve long been known for providing critical financial support to help students access and succeed in higher education. But our work doesn’t stop there. We’re equally committed to preparing our Scholars for life beyond college—ensuring they have the tools, knowledge, and connections to thrive in the workforce.

This April in Los Angeles, we hosted CareerFest 2.0, an immersive event for our Scholars that focused on career readiness and professional growth. What started in 2023 has now grown into a cornerstone of our college-to-career strategy—designed to help students gain the confidence and preparation in getting started in their careers

CareerFest 2.0: A Platform for Real-World Preparation

CareerFest 2.0 offered participants the opportunity to build real-world career skills, connect with professionals across industries, and explore potential career paths through a variety of interactive sessions. The program was built around three key areas:

• Skill Development: Attendees participated in hands-on workshops and training sessions covering interview techniques, resume writing, personal branding, and more—equipping them with practical tools for navigating the job market.
• Industry Insights and Career Pathways: Through panels and breakout sessions, Scholars engaged with professionals from a range of industries including technology, healthcare, finance, media, and engineering—learning what it takes to break into and succeed in those fields.
• Networking Opportunities: CareerFest facilitated meaningful connections between Scholars and industry professionals, providing students with direct access to mentors, recruiters, and potential employers.

Why It Matters

For many college students, especially those navigating the early stages of their careers, guidance and exposure to real-world opportunities can make all the difference. CareerFest 2.0 creates a structured, supportive environment for students to explore their options, ask questions, and leave with a clearer sense of direction—and the tools to act on it.

Looking Ahead

CareerFest is just one example of how APIA Scholars is expanding beyond scholarships to offer high-impact programs that support students’ long-term success. We’re building a future where students are not only able to access higher education, but also transition confidently into the workforce.

We invite funders and partners to join us in this effort—investing in programs that help students build skills, gain exposure to diverse career paths, and grow their professional networks.

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