OBJECTIVE:

  • Help students visualize their career path by working backward from a dream job.
  • Teach students how to set short-term and long-term goals.

MATERIALS:

Whiteboard or chart paper, Markers, Career Pathway Example

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 Pathway Breakdown (15 mins)

Career Path Game Plan

  • Students choose a career and create a “game plan” detailing key milestones (e.g., internships, skills, networking, and degrees/certifications).
  • Then rank these steps from most essential to least essential and discuss why.

The “Pivot” Challenge

  • Throw in a “career curveball”—a scenario where their original career path changes (e.g., tech job automation, a new industry trend).
  • Students must adjust their roadmap and present a backup plan.
  • Discussion: What does this teach us about career flexibility?

Example:

  • Original Plan: Jamie wants to become a graphic designer, planning to go to college for a design degree and work at a creative agency.
  • Curveball: Jamie realizes mid-way through college that AI tools are replacing many traditional design jobs.
  • Pivot Plan: Jamie takes extra courses in UX/UI design and digital marketing to expand their skill set, making them more competitive in tech-related roles.

Activity 2: Career Game Plan (20 mins)

  • Ask: “What’s your dream job?”
  • Quick Discussion: How do people get there?

Dream Job Breakdown

    • Students choose a career and list the steps needed to get there.
    • Include: education, experience, connections, and key skills.

Reality Check Discussion

What challenges might come up? What alternative paths exist?

Share this Example With Students

Closing Huddle:

End by collectively performing your exit ritual! Remind students of the next session!