OBJECTIVE:

  • Help students understand the importance of professional presence in networking, school, and future job opportunities.
  • Teach students how to make strong first impressions through body language, communication, and confidence.- Teach students how to make strong first impressions in professional and social settings.
  • Help students develop confidence in presenting themselves with clarity and professionalism.

MATERIALS:

Whiteboard or chart paper, Markers, Student notebooks or paper

REQUIRED PREP:

Transform your room – Next Gen sessions should be different from typical classes — change the room’s seating order, and get ready for your first session!

Opening Huddle - 15 mins

Feel free to play music to generate energy and set the vibe!

Opening Ritual: Conduct your opening ritual!

Activity 1 - Making a Strong First Impression - 15 mins

  1. First Impressions Discussion: Ask students: “What do you think makes a strong first impression?” Have them brainstorm and write down key elements (eye contact, clear speech, confidence, positive body language).
  2. First Impressions in Action: Pair students up and have them introduce themselves to a partner, paying attention to their posture, tone, and eye contact. They then give each other feedback on what made the introduction strong or what could be improved.
  3. Review these examples: 
    • Weak Introduction: “Uh, hey… I’m Alex. I go to high school, and I guess I like music and stuff. I don’t know what I want to do yet.”
    • Strong Introduction: “Hi, I’m Alex! I’m a high school student with a passion for music production and technology. I love working on new projects, and I’m excited to learn more about careers in the music industry.”
  4. Pair & Practice: Students write their own 30-second pitch and practice with a partner.

Mentor Tip: Encourage students to be enthusiastic and authentic in their pitches.

Activity 2 - The Handshake Challenge - 20 mins

Directions:

  1. The Handshake Challenge: Students practice greeting a mentor or peer with a professional handshake, eye contact, and an introduction. They rotate partners and try to make each introduction stronger than the last.
  2. Group Discussion: Reflect on what felt natural and what was challenging. Discuss why first impressions matter in networking and job settings.
  3. Wrap-Up Discussion: Ask students to share one thing they will work on to improve their confidence in making professional connections.
  4. Winner’s Circle: The class votes on the most confident, creative, or engaging pitch (no “best” winner—just a celebration of improvement).

Mentor Tip: Make this fun! Encourage claps, snaps, or positive shoutouts for effort.

Closing Discussion - 5 mins

  • Closing Huddle: Perform the exit ritual.
  • Final Thought: First impressions open doors—be intentional about how you show up
  • Remind students of the next session.