QUINCY, ILL. -- More than a thousand area high school sophomores learned about their career options after school Tuesday.

It was all part of the West Central Regional Career Fair at John Wood Community College. More than sixty area professionals talked about their careers ranging from veterinary science to journalism. Organizers say it's important to begin thinking about careers early on.

"Having an idea of what to do the rest of their lives will save them a lot of time and money and their parents a lot of time and money," said Hobson Bale, the West Central Illinois Tech Prep Coordinator.

Melissa Shriver also spoke to students about her career as a reporter.