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 (Saturday 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.

What Mentees Get

• Broadened Perspective: Participants get exposed to a diverse range of experiences, career paths, and viewpoints within their field of interest. This can help them understand the different opportunities available and identify options they might not have considered before.
• Efficiency and Focus: Compared to traditional one-on-one mentoring, Igniting the Pathways to Success mentoring allows participants to gather insights from several professionals in a concentrated period. This saves time and allows them to focus on specific questions or topics relevant to their current stage and goals.
• Networking and Relationship Building: Participants build initial connections with a wider network of professionals, expanding their professional circle and creating potential leads for future collaborations or mentorship opportunities.
• Exploration and Self-Discovery: The quick, focused meetings can help participants clarify their own goals and interests by receiving feedback and advice from different perspectives. This can lead to self-discovery and a better understanding of their desired career path.
• Confidence and Motivation: Engaging with experienced professionals in a supportive environment can boost participants' confidence in their abilities and motivate them to pursue their goals. Witnessing diverse career paths firsthand can show them what's possible and inspire them to reach their full potential.
• Practice and Communication Skills: Participating in speed mentoring sessions allows participants to refine their communication skills, learn how to present themselves professionally, and ask concise yet impactful questions.
• Reduced Intimidation: Meeting professionals in a short, structured setting can be less intimidating than a traditional one-on-one mentorship. This can be especially helpful for young or inexperienced participants who are hesitant to reach out to established professionals.
• Spark for Future Connections: Sometimes, a brief conversation can spark a valuable future connection. Even if not all contacts immediately lead to concrete opportunities, the initial introductions can open doors for future collaborations or mentorships.

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.