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. Reinforce a gender-inclusive approach by encouraging all students to consider diverse role models, particularly women in STEM, to help them envision a wider range of possibilities. 

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
• Inspirational STEM figures, including women role models, who represent diverse career paths 
• 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. Where possible, include women STEM professionals among the mentors to provide gender-representative guidance and broaden perspectives. 
• 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? 
• Did learning about women in STEM change or expand your view of what's possible in your career journey? 

Extension: Organize follow-up meetings throughout the year for students to track their progress and update their career maps with their mentor.  Consider inviting guest speakers, especially women in STEM, to these meetings to maintain engagement and provide ongoing inspiration.