Igniting the Pathways to Success Mentoring Program

Program Week 1 (Saturday October 4, 2025)
Your Future, Your Way
(Two 15 minute breaks + 60 minutes for lunch)

Building Your Network (10:00am - 12:00pm)
Tired of feeling alone on your journey? We'll show you how to connect with amazing people, discover hidden opportunities, and build a supportive network. Imagine confidently networking with professionals, landing informational interviews, and finding mentors who can guide you. Hear from successful individuals who've used networking to unlock their potential. Get practical tips you can use right away and watch your network grow!

Lunch (Sponsored by Raising Cane's or Chick-fil-a) (12:00pm - 1:00pm)
Enjoy a delicious meal while networking with mentors, workshop leaders, and fellow participants.

Post Secondary Education Options workshop (1:00pm - 3:00pm)
Confused about your next steps after high school? College/university? Community collecge? Trade schools? Two-year certificate programs? Unsure about what major is your jam? This webinar is for YOU! There are a number of great education options for students seeking STEM careers. Learn about different post-secondary options, discover scholarships and financial aid opportunities, and hear from successful graduates and industry professionals - they'll share their stories, answer your burning questions, and show you how YOU can chart your own success story! Don't miss this chance to ignite your future!

Program Week 2 (Saturday October 11, 2025)
Meet our STEM Pros
(Two 15 minute breaks + 60 minutes for lunch)

Mentoring Panel Discussion - Session 1 (10:00am - 12:00pm)
Ever dreamed of a career where creativity meets innovation? A career in STEM can include "cool jobs" like designing concert stages, prototyping cutting-edge sneakers, or producing digital art. Still think you need to be the next Steve Jobs to pursue a STEM career? Think again! STEM careers are within reach for any young person and can take many different forms.

Join our panel discussion with real-life STEM rockstars and get the inside scoop on their journeys. Ask them ANYTHING – from career paths and college tips to overcoming challenges and landing dream jobs. This is your chance to connect with inspiring mentors, learn from their experiences, and ignite your own passion for STEM. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock your potential and shape your future. Register now!

Lunch (Sponsored by Raising Cane's or Chick-fil-a) (12:00pm - 1:00pm)
Enjoy a delicious meal while networking with mentors, workshop leaders, and fellow participants.

Speed Mentoring - Session 1 (1:00pm - 3:00pm)
Power-packed 15 mins ignites ideas! The session starts with a 30 minute mini panel discussion to re-introduce the mentors and explain the format. In speed mentoring, 4 students meet 2-3 industry pros for 4 quick bursts of guidance. Each focused session tackles career paths, project hurdles, or roadblocks. Mentors share wisdom, while students soak up insights. Laughter sparks as connections ignite, leaving everyone energized and empowered. A mini-mentorship mosaic unfolds, leaving a lasting impact on dreams and futures. The day ends with a 30 minute debrief with the participants.

Program Week 3 (Saturday October 18, 2025)
Level Up Your Skills
(Two 15 minute breaks + 60 minutes for lunch)

Resume Writing & Interviewing 101 (10:00am - 12:00pm)
Even with limited work experience, high school students can craft impressive resumes that showcase their potential. This workshop will teach you how to craft a compelling resume that showcases your skills and potential. We'll explore how to leverage part-time jobs, internships, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities to create a professional document. You'll learn how to write impactful statements, highlight your achievements, and tailor your resume to specific job applications. Don't underestimate the power of a well-written resume—it's never too early to start building your professional brand. This workshop is your ticket to unlocking opportunities. Register now and get ready to shine!

Lunch (Sponsored by Raising Cane's or Chick-fil-a) (12:00pm - 1:00pm)
Enjoy a delicious meal while networking with mentors, workshop leaders, and fellow participants.

Public Speaking and Presentations (1:00pm - 3:00pm)
Got something to say but feeling shy? This workshop is your chance to conquer your fear of public speaking! Learn powerful presentation skills, craft impactful messages, and overcome those nervous jitters. Imagine confidently presenting your ideas, leading discussions, and even nailing college interviews! Get tips from experienced coaches and hear from inspiring young leaders who've mastered the art of public speaking. Register now and let your voice be heard!

Program Week 4 (Saurday October 25, 2025)
Meet our STEM Pros
(Two 15 minute breaks + 60 minutes for lunch)

Mentoring Panel Discussion - Session 2 (10:00am - 12:00pm)
Ever dreamed of a career where creativity meets innovation? A career in STEM can include "cool jobs" like designing concert stages, prototyping cutting-edge sneakers, or producing digital art. Still think you need to be the next Steve Jobs to pursue a STEM career? Think again! STEM careers are within reach for any young person and can take many different forms.

Join our panel discussion with real-life STEM rockstars and get the inside scoop on their journeys. Ask them ANYTHING – from career paths and college tips to overcoming challenges and landing dream jobs. This is your chance to connect with inspiring mentors, learn from their experiences, and ignite your own passion for STEM. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock your potential and shape your future. Register now!

Lunch (Sponsored by Raising Cane's or Chick-fil-a) (12:00pm - 1:00pm)
Enjoy a delicious meal while networking with mentors, workshop leaders, and fellow participants.

Speed Mentoring - Session 2 (1:00pm - 3:00pm)
Power-packed 15 mins ignites ideas! The session starts with a 30 minute mini panel discussion to re-introduce the mentors and explain the format. In speed mentoring, 4 students meet 2-3 industry pros for 4 quick bursts of guidance. Each focused session tackles career paths, project hurdles, or roadblocks. Mentors share wisdom, while students soak up insights. Laughter sparks as connections ignite, leaving everyone energized and empowered. A mini-mentorship mosaic unfolds, leaving a lasting impact on dreams and futures. The day ends with a 30 minute debrief with the participants.

Speed Mentoring and Panel Discussion Skill Set:

For the speed mentoring and panel discussions the following skills/expertise is required:

• Experience in a STEM field: Mentors should have experience working in a STEM field. This experience can be gained through work, education, or volunteer activities.
• Communication skills: Mentors should be able to communicate effectively with mentees. They should be able to listen to mentees, offer guidance and support, and help mentees to set goals. They should be able to share their knowledge and experience, answer questions, and engage in discussion.
• Problem-solving skills: Mentors should be able to help mentees solve problems. They should be able to think creatively and come up with solutions that work for mentees.
• Empathy: Mentors should be able to empathize with mentees. They should be able to understand mentees' interests and goals.
• Trustworthiness: Mentors should be trustworthy. They should be able to build trust with mentees and create a safe space for mentees to ask questions, share their thoughts, and talk about their challenges and goals.

Workshop Leader Skill Set:

For the workshops the following skills/expertise is required:

• Building your network workshop: The mentor should have experience building their own network and be able to share their knowledge and experience with the mentees. They should be able to help mentees identify potential networking opportunities and develop strategies for building relationships with people in their field.
• Post Secondary Education* Options workshop: The mentor should have knowledge of the different post-secondary education options available for students interested in pursuing careers in STEM. They should be able to help mentees explore their options and make informed decisions about their future education.
• Public speaking and presentations workshop: The mentor should have experience public speaking and presenting to groups. They should be able to teach mentees the basics of public speaking, such as how to prepare a presentation, how to deliver a presentation, and how to handle questions from the audience.
• Resume Writing & Interviewing 101 workshop: The mentor should have experience writing resumes and interviewing for jobs. They should be able to teach mentees with little to no work experience how to write a resume that highlights their skills and experience, and how to prepare for and ace job interviews.

*Postsecondary Education, also known as tertiary education, is the education level that follows the successful completion of secondary education, often referred to as high school. Postsecondary education includes universities and colleges, as well as trade and vocational schools.After high school is completed, any education that a student pursues would be post-secondary. Source: https://www.thinkimpact.com/what-is-post-secondary-education/

What Mentors Get

Mentoring sessions offer several benefits for mentors beyond simply supporting mentees. Here are some key advantages:

Professional Development:

• Staying updated: By interacting with young minds and emerging trends, mentors stay informed about current dynamics in their field and hone their own knowledge.
• Sharing expertise: Mentoring sessions provide a platform for mentors to share their expertise and experience, contributing to the professional development of the next generation.
• Enhancing communication skills: Engaging in quick, focused conversations requires clear and concise communication, a valuable skill for any professional.

Personal Growth:

• Sense of purpose: Engaging with and impacting the career paths of others can be personally fulfilling and contribute to a sense of purpose and social responsibility.
• Networking opportunities: Mentors can expand their professional network by connecting with other mentors, mentees, and program organizers.
• Confidence boost: Seeing the positive impact they have on mentees can boost mentors' confidence and self-esteem.

Career Advancement:

• Building a reputation: Participating in mentorship programs can enhance a mentor's professional reputation and showcase their commitment to giving back to the community.
• Attracting talent: Involvement in youth development programs can be attractive to prospective employers who value social responsibility and community engagement.
• Identifying potential talent: Through speed mentoring, mentors may encounter promising young individuals who could become future colleagues or collaborators.

Additional Benefits:

• Fresh perspective: Engaging with mentees' questions and ideas can expose mentors to new perspectives and challenge their own assumptions, fostering innovation and creativity.
• Sense of accomplishment: Witnessing the progress and success of mentees can be personally rewarding and provide a sense of accomplishment.
• Strengthening connections: Regular participation in mentoring programs can build strong connections within the professional community and enhance a sense of belonging.

Overall, mentoring offers a unique opportunity for mentors to make a positive impact on future young professionals, expand their network, and gain valuable personal and professional benefits. It's a win-win situation that fosters mutual growth and development for both mentors and mentees.

Resume Writing, Interviewing 101 for Students (2 Hours)

Module 1: Resume Writing (1 Hour)

Introduction to Resumes (10 minutes):

• What is a resume?
• Purpose of a resume
• Types of resumes (chronological, functional, combination)

Crafting a Strong Resume (30 minutes):

• Creating a strong header
• Writing a compelling summary statement
• Highlighting relevant skills and experiences
• Quantifying achievements
• Formatting and design tips

Resume Review and Feedback (20 minutes):

• Participants share their draft resumes and receive feedback from the instructor and peers.

Module 2: Interviewing 101 and Career Advice (1 Hour)

Preparing for an Interview (20 minutes):

• Researching the company and position
• Practicing common interview questions
• Developing strong answers
• Dressing professionally

Interview Techniques (20 minutes):

• Effective communication skills
• Active listening
• Body language and nonverbal cues
• Asking thoughtful questions

Career Advice and Tips (20 minutes):

• Networking strategies
• Building professional relationships
• Overcoming job search challenges
• Leveraging social media for career advancement

Additional Activities:

• Hands-on Activities: Incorporates hands-on activities like resume-writing exercises and mock interviews to enhance learning.
• Real-World Examples: Real-world examples of resumes and cover letters to illustrate best practices.
• Guest Speaker: A hiring manager or HR professional  will share their insights on resume screening and interviewing.