2.4 "STEM Career Mapping" with a Mentor

Objective: Help students envision their own potential STEM careers by creating a career map with input from a mentor. 

Instructions: 

• Provide students with career mapping templates that include sections like: 
• Interests and strengths in STEM subjects 
• Possible college majors 
• Potential career paths in STEM fields 
• Key skills to develop 
• Mentors or resources that could help along the way 
• Pair students with an older peer, teacher, or STEM professional as a mentor (this can be done virtually if necessary). 
• The mentor will guide the student in filling out their career map, offering advice on educational choices, internships, and overcoming challenges. 
• After the session, students present their career maps to the class or in small groups, explaining their future STEM goals and the steps they plan to take. 

Discussion Questions: 

• How did working with a mentor help clarify your path? 
• What steps can you take now to work toward a STEM career? 
• How can having a mentor help you succeed in the long term? 

Extension: Organize follow-up meetings throughout the year for students to track their progress and update their career maps with their mentor.