In this fast-paced, 8-meeting career readiness class, students will explore the differences between direct school-to-work jobs, careers, and the role college may have in achieving their future goals. They will complete a “living on minimum wage” project; analyze career choices to include military service, apprenticeships, state and national service, career schools, community college, and university degrees; and prepare and complete a job-related research project. Class format will include class discussion, working with a team to investigate and gather facts about different job options, and individual sharing and presentations. 
Please note, this is a vigorous class which requires students to be responsible for completing all assignments. The course will follow this schedule:

Day 1: Introduction, interest inventories/career assessments, students discussion and feedback.  

Day 2: The Minimum Wage Project Part 1 - Students compile information on basic living expenses to include housing, transportation, insurance, utilities, groceries, clothing, pets, and entertainment. They  present their findings in the next class.

Day 3: The Minimum Wage Project Part 2 – Students present their minimum wage project findings using  power point presentations, charts/graphs, or other teacher approved visual aids.

Day 4: Activities and discussion of career paths that do not require additional education (military, apprenticeships, state and national service, etc.).

Day 5: Activities and discussion of career options that require additional education (trade schools, community college, university degrees, etc.).

Day 6: Career Cluster Inventory Part 2 – Students three (3) careers from the career clusters from Day 2. 

Day 7: Students discuss career compatibility and select one (1) career choice for their final project to be presented in class on day 8. 

Day 8: Students present their final projects. And complete a final reflection summary in class.

Learners are encouraged to follow this class with "Career Readiness: Resumés, Interviews, and Soft Skills."