In high school, how many of us knew what we wanted to do in life as a career? Many, maybe most, students do not know what they want to do when they "grow up," but they have some ideas about their interest areas. Field experiences allow youth to take a peak at an industry and the many occupations within it. Typically, students participate in a series of job shadows over the course of 3 to 4 months. They work within School-to-Career to set up weekly visits to businesses. In some programs, 10-15 students are involved in a structured rotation. In this case, a business will host 1 to 2 students per week until the entire group has toured the site. Field Experiences typically are held after school and last 1 to 2 hours.

So what do you do with inquisitive students week after week?

Show students around your workplace. Have students spend time in each department observing and asking questions.
Take them to a job site. (Prior authorization required)
Have students sit in on client meetings.
Give students the opportunity to make some decisions so they can see what it takes to get the job done.
Talk to students about occupations, what education is needed, what skills and experience are needed, what the chances are for advancement?