Make youth tours and career presentations count

COLUMBIA, Mo. – A factory tour, classroom presentation or career day visit can do more than introduce young people to a profession. With a few adjustments, those experiences can spark interest, build confidence and help youths imagine themselves in future careers, says University of Missouri Extension youth specialist Kellie Seals.

As schools begin a new academic year, businesses, nonprofits and community organizations often look for opportunities to connect with students. While many outreach efforts focus on sharing information about an industry or workplace, Seals says the most memorable experiences are the ones that help young people see a personal connection.

“When a child thinks, ‘He or she is like me,’ they’re more likely to conclude, ‘If he or she can do it, so can I,’” Seals says.

Building that connection can be as simple as having presenters share their local roots, talk about their school experiences or discuss interests they have in common with students. Seeing someone they can relate to makes it easier for young people to envision themselves in a similar role someday, says Seals.

Hands-on activities can make a lasting impression

Whether students are touring a workplace or hearing from guest speakers, interactive experiences tend to be more memorable than lectures alone. While not every industry can offer real-world work experiences, Seals says even simple activities can help bring concepts to life.

“It is not possible to have young visitors fly a real plane or use welding rods. Flight and welding simulators are the next best options, though popsicle sticks and paper airplanes will absolutely do the job,” Seals says.

The goal is not necessarily to convince every student to pursue a particular occupation, she says. Rather, successful career exploration helps young people learn about opportunities, discover their interests and better understand their communities.

Seals also encourages presenters to share the realities of their own career journeys.

Students are often exposed to neat, step-by-step descriptions of educational and career pathways, but real careers rarely unfold that way. Hearing about unexpected turns, setbacks and opportunities can help young people understand that careers are shaped by both planning and adaptability.

“The more human and personal, the better,” she says.

Another key factor is tailoring presentations to the audience. Industry terminology that makes perfect sense to professionals can quickly lose younger audiences. Seals recommends working with teachers or youth leaders to understand students’ knowledge levels, using age-appropriate language and connecting workplace concepts to familiar experiences. For example, project management can be explained through planning a birthday party or completing a group project at school.

When evaluating youth outreach efforts, Seals suggests focusing less on whether students say they want a career in a particular field and more on whether the experience increased their interest, awareness and desire to learn more. Positive engagement and exploration are often more meaningful measures of success, especially for younger audiences.

She adds that it is perfectly acceptable if an experience helps a young person realize a career is not for them.

“Helping young people figure out what is not a good fit for them should be considered a success!” Seals says.

While career exploration can benefit youth of any age, Seals notes that middle school students are often especially receptive as they begin exploring interests, identities and future possibilities.

For more ideas on designing effective youth tours, presentations and career exploration activities, read Seals’ article How to make youth tours and presentations more meaningful.