Future Pathways Exploration Worksheet
Alternative College Fair Assignment
Future Pathways: Career & College Blueprint
Target Time: 50–60 Min
Student Name
Date
Grade / Period
Advisory / Counselor
Task Overview: Use trusted resources (such as bls.gov/ooh, collegescorecard.ed.gov, or your school’s guidance portal) to investigate a target career and evaluate two potential institutions that can prepare you to enter that field. Complete each section thoroughly.
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Part 1: Career Vision & Industry Profile
Target Career Title / Role:
Career Cluster / Industry (e.g., Health, STEM, Business):
Core Job Responsibilities & Daily Functions (What does someone in this role actually do?):
Required Education & Credentials
Minimum Degree or Certification Needed:
Licensure, State Exams, or Apprenticeships (if applicable):
Recommended Undergraduate Majors or Training Tracks:
Economic Outlook (BLS / O*NET Data)
Median Annual Salary:
Entry-Level Estimate:
Projected Job Growth Rate (% or Faster/Slower than avg):
Primary Work Environment (Office, Lab, Remote, Field):
Essential Skills Inventory for this Profession:
Technical / Hard Skills (2 specific proficiencies):
Interpersonal / Soft Skills (2 critical human skills):
High School College & Career Readiness • Module A Page 1 of 3
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Part 2: Head-to-Head Postsecondary Comparison
Select two colleges, universities, or training institutes that offer pathways into your chosen field.
Comparative Matrix
Key Evaluation Criteria
Institution A
Institution B
1. Name & Campus Setting Location (City/State), setting (urban/suburban/rural), in-state vs out-of-state.
2. Major & Academic Focus Name of department, degree program, specializations, or accreditation status.
3. Admissions Profile & Deadlines Acceptance rate, average GPA/test ranges, application deadlines (EA/ED/RD).
4. Size & Learning Environment Undergrad enrollment, student-to-faculty ratio, average class size.
5. Cost of Attendance (Sticker Price) Tuition + fees + room & board (per year before scholarships/aid).
6. Career Launch & Internship Pipeline Internship placement programs, co-op partnerships, alumni networks, research labs.
Analytical Reflection: Weighing the Trade-Offs
A. Academic Rigor & Program Strength: Which institution appears better positioned to prepare you for your specific career path, and what distinct academic advantage does it offer?
B. Campus Culture & Scale Fit: How do the class sizes, campus setting, and community environment of these two institutions compare to what you personally need to thrive as a learner?
High School College & Career Readiness • Module A Page 2 of 3
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Part 3: Financial ROI & Senior Action Plan
Analyze the financial reality of your options and outline concrete next steps.
Strategic Next Steps
Return on Investment (ROI) & Affordability Check Net Price Calculator / College Scorecard data
Institution A Estimated Net Cost
Avg. Annual Net Price:
Median Debt at Graduation:
Institution B Estimated Net Cost
Avg. Annual Net Price:
Median Debt at Graduation:
Debt-to-Income Reality Check: Compare your career's expected entry-level salary (Page 1) against the cost and borrowing required for these options. Which institution provides a safer, higher-value financial return? Explain:
Final Verdict: If you had to submit an application today, which option would be your primary choice, and what is the #1 deciding factor?
Next Steps Checklist: 30-Day Postsecondary Milestone Plan
Schedule a campus visit or attend a verified virtual info session
Review prerequisite high school coursework / GPA standards
Draft personal statement / college application essay outline
Identify 2 teachers/mentors for letters of recommendation
Professional Outreach Practice: Admissions / Department Inquiry Draft 2–3 concise sentences
Write an introductory inquiry email to an admissions counselor or department chair asking one specific question about their program, internship opportunities, or financial aid:
Student Signature
Total Time Spent
mins
Teacher / Counselor Approval
High School College & Career Readiness • Module A Page 3 of 3
