“When should my student start preparing for college?”
This is by far one of the top questions I get asked. Preparing for college entails a whole list of things, but career exploration is the one that rises to the top.
As a parent, you play a critical role in helping your child discover their interests and potential career paths. And while high school is often seen as the time to begin exploring careers, it’s never too early to start! Middle school is an ideal time to introduce your child to various career options.
Here’s why and how you can make career exploration fun, engaging, and meaningful for your child.
Start by considering what naturally excites them.
If they don’t yet show a clear interest in a particular field, try exposing them to activities that align with what they enjoy or what seems to capture their curiosity. For example, if your child loves solving puzzles, they might enjoy fields related to problem-solving, such as engineering or computer science. Observing their hobbies and tendencies can reveal a lot about potential career interests. If they’re fascinated by wildlife, consider visiting a nearby zoo or wildlife center, where they can meet zoologists or veterinarians.
Real-world connections matter
Encouraging career exploration through real-world connections can make a big difference. I have found that none of us – yep, that includes adults, really knows what someone really does in a particular career. It’s more than what we see. Try introducing your child to family, friends, relatives, or local professionals who work in fields they might find interesting. These personal connections offer insights that go beyond textbooks and classroom learning. Many professionals are open to being shadowed for a day or offering a tour of their workspace, giving your child a first-hand view of what they do.
Consider summer programs
Summer programs are another fantastic way to help middle schoolers explore careers. Many colleges and community centers offer courses in STEM, art, business, and more. Project-based learning programs are particularly effective because they allow students to experience hands-on work. For example, a summer coding camp might involve creating a small app or website, while an art program could focus on building a portfolio.
What matters to your child?
It’s also essential to consider what matters to your child. Whether they value creativity, teamwork, helping others, or problem-solving, aligning potential careers with their values will make career exploration more meaningful. For instance, if your child values making a difference, introduce them to people working in social work, healthcare, or environmental science.
Make career discussions a natural part of family life
During dinner or on a road trip, casually talk about different careers, interesting people you know, or new jobs emerging in various fields. Ask questions that spark curiosity, like “What kind of job would you enjoy if you could work outdoors?” or “Do you think you’d enjoy working with a team or by yourself?”