OBJECTIVE:

Help students develop a strong personal introduction for networking and job opportunities.

Build confidence in public speaking through a fun and interactive competition

MATERIALS:

Timer, 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! 

Mood Check: Quick check-in—ask students, “How do you feel about introducing yourself to new people?”

Activity 1 - Elevator Pitch Breakdown - 15 mins

  • Ask: “If someone important asked, ‘Tell me about yourself,’ what would you say?” Have a few students share.
  • Break Down the Elevator Pitch: Write this simple format on the board:
  • Who you are (Name, grade, interests)
  • What you do (Strengths, passions, achievements)
  • Where you’re headed (Career goals, future plans)
  • Provide the Elevator Pitch Guide Handout with examples of strong and weak introductions.

Example Elevator Pitch: “Hi, my name is Jordan, and I’m a 9th-grade student at [School Name]. I’m really passionate about technology and love building things, whether it’s coding small projects or fixing gadgets at home. I hope to one day work in cybersecurity to help protect people’s information. I’m excited to learn more about different careers and connect with people who can guide me along the way!” 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 - Elevator Pitch Playoff - 20 mins

Directions:

  1. Speed Round Challenge: Divide students into groups of 4-5. Each person delivers their elevator pitch within 30 seconds.
  2. Feedback Rotation: Each student receives one piece of positive feedback and one improvement tip from their group.
  3. Final Round: Select 3-5 volunteers to present their final pitch to the full group.
  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: “Your voice is powerful—introducing yourself with confidence opens doors!”
  • Remind students of the next session.