As the summer comes to a close, it’s impressive to see how many students participated in the Exploring Futures program, a middle school career exploration initiative launched in partnership with the NYC Department of Youth & Community Development, the NYC Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development, and Hats & Ladders. In addition to the middle school students who engaged in career exploration at their summer program, over 1,000 students from Beacon, Cornerstone, and COMPASS sites participated in exposure event opportunities, which included high school panels and worksite trips for young people to engage with professionals.
Students were not just observers; they were active participants, gaining hands-on experience and insight into a wide range of fields. Whether they were getting an inside look at SummerStage‘s production process, understanding the complexities of emergency management at New York City Emergency Management Department, or learning about AI’s role in medicine at Pfizer, these young people were gaining experiences that are not always accessible to everyone but should be. It’s essential that we continue to expand these opportunities so more young people can explore diverse career paths and envision a future in which they can thrive.
This summer alone, 1,248 students had the opportunity to participate in career-connected events, with 360 joining virtually. These numbers highlight the broad reach and impact of the program, demonstrating a strong commitment from our students to explore diverse career paths.
Career-connected learning connects education and the real world, helping students see the relevance of their studies and inspiring them to pursue their ambitions with clarity and confidence. For instance, visits to various institutions of higher learning were integral to the program.
“The trip to City College with the camp was extraordinary. It inspired many of your participants to dream of one day studying at a university. It was great to see them walking on the City College campus and watching their eyes light up!” said an afterschool educator in a recent survey.
When students see firsthand different career possibilities, it can transform their outlook and motivate them to set new goals, try new clubs and extracurriculars, and develop new curiosities. Such experiences not only broaden their horizons but also instill a sense of ambition and possibility that can drive their future academic and career choices.
As we head into the new school year, we’re excited to build upon the energy, experiences, and partnerships that were developed this summer with sites, staff, and workplaces. To support sites in reaching their five-hour requirement, additional panels, trips, and professional connections are planned for this fall.
More information regarding dates and registration will be coming soon.
If you are a professional interested in partnering with us for a potential field trip or panel, reach out here. If you have any questions about the Exploring Futures program, feel free to email Alex, Exploring Futures Program Director, at [email protected].
