Self-Awareness
Family Resources on Decision for the Future
Lesson Topic
Encourage students to consider all vocational options, regardless of post-secondary schooling requirements.
Essential Question
What vocational options should I consider?
Decisions for the Future – Travis
If this lesson was used in the classroom: Students learned about considering their post-secondary options and choices for lifetime employment. In class students discussed various professional choices available based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data regarding prospects of various career paths
Getting Ready for the Conversation
High school aged youth face the challenge of making many decisions that will affect their lifetime career course. Particularly important are decisions about what to do when high school ends: two-year college, four-year college, trade school, military service, something else? Travis has chosen to be an automotive technician which allows him to earn a living wage right out of high school and become financially independent. Have the high school students in your household developed such a thoughtful plan for their future?
Conversation notes:
Travis spent time researching what he wanted to do and that mechanics can earn a living wage. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics is the place to start finding out the earning potential of a particular occupation.
Anyone can find out growth trends, education requirements and a lot of other useful information in on online Occupational Outlook Handbook which is frequently updated (there also is an iOS and Android app): https://www.bls.gov/ooh
Constructive Conversation Starters
The first item is for follow-up after viewing the lesson video and participating in class activities.
What choices has Travis made for his future? Do you think he has a good plan? Why or why not?
What are your options when you finish high school? What resources will be necessary to make your ideas work? Why do you think so?
What are some things you can do now to learn more about what interests you have? Are there part-time jobs or community experiences that could help you learn more about your interests?
Who are some people that could provide support or insight into your future career choices? Why would these people be helpful?
School to Home Resources on Decision for the Future
Lesson Plan
Interactive Reflections and Lesson Plans often cover broader themes than the competency named. All CWK stories are multi-faceted and are meant to prompt deep conversation.
Interactive Reflection > Open/Download Complete PDF Lesson
Travis has found a career for him
Travis says, “in the first year you make about $40,000 and then it just continuously goes up from there with more certifications and experience”. Travis has clearly thought about his future career. What skills do you want to develop for your own career in the future? Travis mentions “certifications and experience”, he has thought about continuing learning after he is working full time. What kinds of skills do you think you will need to continue to develop even after you are working full time?
Technology credentials have high earning potential
Ms. Brown the Career Coach interviewed in the video provides some career advice. Travis has spent time exploring his interests and building skills.
Watch these videos and think about how Cary and Ben are learning new skills. What careers have you considered based on your skills and interest?
List the steps you can take in developing your own career plan? What volunteer activities should you consider to help you learn about your skills and interests?
Many options exist for learning after high school
Review and think about your answers to the previous three questions. What additional considerations do you need to make?
Will you need additional schooling after you graduate high school? Will this require financial aid? If post-secondary education is needed, is it available near home or will you have to move? Will you need a way to pay living expenses while pursuing further education? What are the ongoing learning requirements as your career grows and changes in the future?
Additional Reflection Questions > Open/Download PDF
