OBJECTIVE:
- Explore different career pathways (college, trade school, workforce, entrepreneurship).
- Help students think critically about their future career decisions.
MATERIALS:
Pre-written debate prompts, Whiteboard, Markers
REQUIRED PREP:
Teacher: – Transform your room – Next Gen sessions should be different from typical classes — change the atmosphere of your classroom and get ready for your first session!
Opening Huddle
Opening Huddle: Feel free to play music to generate energy and set the vibe!
Opening Ritual: Conduct your opening ritual!
Mood Check: Gather the students into a circle (standing or sitting – keep comfort in mind)!
Activity 1: Career Debate Challenge (20 Mins)
What’s the Best Career Path?
- Ask: “What’s one pro and one con of going to college, trade school, or straight into the workforce?”
- Quick Discussion: Write responses on the board.
Career Debate Challenge
- Students are split into teams representing different career paths.
- Each team gets time to prepare arguments for why their path is best.
Teams debate against each other with rebuttals.
Find Rules and Debate Prompts Here
Activity 2: Personal Reflection & Decision-Making (20 Mins)
Discuss Pathway Decisions
- Which Path Feels Right? Students consider their own interests and strengths.
- Quick Journal Prompt: “What career path makes the most sense for me and why?”
Closing & Reflection (5 Mins)
- Ask: “What’s one career path you hadn’t considered before this debate?”
- When you think of your future are you dreaming or settling?
Closing Huddle:
End by collectively performing your exit ritual! Remind students of the next session!
Final Thought: “There’s no one-size-fits-all path to success.”
