OBJECTIVE:

Students will reflect on their journey leading up to Selection Day, explore any remaining questions or feelings about their choices, and name the strengths they’re carrying with them into this next step.

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 (5 mins):

Goal: Conduct the cohort ritual and mood check.

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 (20 mins)

Mentors: Look Back to Move Forward

Instructions:
 Invite students to reflect and journal quietly on the following prompts:

    1. What has prepared me for this moment?
      • Think about people, experiences, challenges, or decisions.
    2. What’s something I’ve learned about myself during this process?
    3. What strengths have I used the most this year?
    4. What do I want to remember, no matter what happens next?

Optional Share-Out:

  • Invite students to partner up or form a small circle to share 1–2 responses.

Activity 2 (20 mins)

Teacher and Mentor Share the Vision: Grounding in Your “Why” 

Instructions:
 Students reflect on or workshop the path they’ve selected (or are leaning toward), focusing on the why behind the choice, not just the name of the college, job, program, or opportunity.

Prompt:

“I’m choosing ___ because ___.”
 “This path reflects who I am because ___.”
 “Even if it’s not the final destination, this step matters to me because ___.”

Peer Practice Option:

  • Students turn to a partner and “speak their why” out loud.
  • Partners respond with affirmations: “What I heard in your voice was…” or “That choice reflects strength in…”

Closing Huddle

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