Discovery Roadmap Lesson Plan Session 1: Self-Discovery
Career Compass Series • Tier 3 Individual Support
50 Minutes
Why This Session Matters
Self-awareness boosts confidence, informs career decision-making, and aligns future plans with personal traits, increasing motivation and engagement.
Objective
Help the student identify personal interests, strengths, and values through guided self-assessments and reflection to build self-awareness as a foundation for career exploration.
Audience
High School Student (one-on-one coaching)
Prep (10 mins)
Review each worksheet: Interest Inventory Sheet , Strengths Assessment Worksheet , and Values Clarification Worksheet .
Print or upload digital copies for student access.
Ensure the Personal Reflection Journal Template is ready (print or digital).
Arrange a quiet, comfortable one-on-one meeting space.
Session Instructions
10 MINS
Icebreaker and Introduction
Greet the student and explain the session’s goal: self-discovery to guide career choices.
Conduct a brief icebreaker (e.g., share two truths and a lie or favorite hobbies).
Emphasize confidentiality and open discussion.
Introduce the Personal Reflection Journal Template for note-taking.
15 MINS
Interest Inventory Activity
Distribute the Interest Inventory Sheet .
Explain each category and have the student rate interest levels (1–5).
Discuss top 3 rated areas: ask for examples or experiences related to those interests.
Record insights in the reflection journal.
10 MINS
Strengths Assessment
Provide the Strengths Assessment Worksheet .
Guide the student to list personal strengths and skills, then select their top 5.
Discuss how these strengths have shown up in school, hobbies, or work.
Note connections between strengths and potential career paths.
10 MINS
Values Clarification Activity
Hand out the Values Clarification Worksheet .
Explain importance of personal values in career satisfaction.
Ask the student to rank or choose their top 5 values.
Discuss real-life scenarios where these values matter and record reflections.
5 MINS
Reflection and Next Steps
Have the student summarize key insights in the Personal Reflection Journal Template .
Identify one small action or research task for the next session (e.g., explore a career related to a top interest).
Confirm time for Session 2 and encourage ongoing journal entries if desired.
Discovery Roadmap Presentation Session 1:
Self-Discovery
Building your internal compass to navigate your future.
Teacher Notes Welcome the student warmly and explain the purpose of today’s session: building self-awareness to guide career exploration. Emphasize confidentiality and open discussion. Use this slide to set a positive tone.
Today’s Agenda
1 Icebreaker & Introduction
2 Interest Inventory
3 Strengths Assessment
4 Values Clarification
5 Reflection & Next Steps
The Goal
"Identify your personal interests, strengths, and values to boost confidence and align your career choices with who you really are."
Explain that today is all about gathering data on the most important person in this process: them! Use this slide to set clear expectations.
Icebreaker & Intro
Options
• Two Truths & A Lie: Can you guess which one isn't true?
• Favorite Hobbies: What do you love doing in your free time?
Safe Space
Everything we discuss is confidential. Be honest with yourself—there are no wrong answers here.
Reflection Journal
We'll use this to capture your insights today and throughout the program.
Guide the student through a quick icebreaker to build rapport. Explain ground rules (confidentiality, honesty). Invite them to share either two truths & a lie or a favorite hobby.
Interest Inventory
How to play:
1 Rate each category from 1 (low) to 5 (high).
2 Identify your Top 3 areas.
3 Discuss why these resonate with you.
Science & Tech
Arts & Design
Business
Service
Nature
Culture
Distribute the Interest Inventory Sheet. Walk through each category and have the student rate interest levels 1–5. Encourage discussion of top three picks. Record insights in the reflection journal.
Strengths Assessment
What are you good at?
We're going to brainstorm your natural talents and skills. Don't be humble—this is the time to own what makes you great.
Think about:
School projects
Helping friends/family
Hobbies & Sports
Part-time jobs or volunteering
Top 5 Mission
Pick your absolute best 5 strengths and find a real-life example for each.
Interest Radar Worksheet Interest Inventory Sheet
Student Name
Date
Instructions: For each category below, circle a rating from 1 (low interest) to 5 (high interest) . Then describe why you chose that rating or give an example of when you've engaged in related activities.
1 Science & Technology
Rating:
12345
Why / Example:
2 Arts & Creativity (e.g., drawing, music, design)
Rating:
12345
Why / Example:
3 Business & Leadership (e.g., projects, entrepreneurship)
Rating:
12345
Why / Example:
4 Helping & Service (e.g., tutoring, healthcare)
Rating:
12345
Why / Example:
5 Outdoor & Nature (e.g., sports, conservation)
Rating:
12345
Why / Example:
6 Communication & Media (e.g., writing, speaking)
Rating:
12345
Why / Example:
Reflection
Which 2–3 categories did you rate highest? What patterns or surprises do you notice?
Strength Spotlight Worksheet Strengths Assessment
Student Name
Date
1
Brainstorm Your Strengths
List as many strengths or skills as you can think of (e.g., problem-solving, creativity, leadership, listening). Aim for at least 10!
2
Select Your Top 5 Strengths
Review your list and choose the five strengths you feel best represent you. For each, describe a time you used it.
Strength 1:
Example / Story
Strength 2:
Example / Story
Strength 3:
Example / Story
Strength 4:
Example / Story
Strength 5:
Example / Story
Reflection
Which of your top strengths surprised you the most? Why?
How might these strengths connect to careers you’re interested in?
Core Compass Values Worksheet Values Clarification
Student Name
Date
1
Select Your Top 10 Values
Values guide your satisfaction in work and life. Circle or mark the 10 values from the list below that matter most to you.
Achievement
Balance
Creativity
Helping Others
Independence
Security
Adventure
Recognition
Teamwork
Learning
Tradition
Innovation
Leadership
Stability
Variety
Integrity
Community
Freedom
Respect
Growth
Write your Top 10 here:
2
Rank Your Top 5 Values
From your Top 10 list, choose and rank the 5 most essential values (1 = most important).
1
Value:
Why this matters to me:
2
Value:
Why this matters to me:
3
Value:
Why this matters to me:
4
Value:
Why this matters to me:
5
Value:
Why this matters to me:
Deep Dive
Think of a time when your top value guided a decision. Describe the situation and outcome.
How might these values influence your choice of career or college environment?
Explorer Reflection Journal Personal Journal
Career Compass Reflections
Explorer Name
Start Date
Session 1: Self-Discovery
Date: ________
Top Interest
Key Strength
Core Value
What was the most surprising thing you learned about yourself today?
How do you feel about your future career options after today's session?
Session 2: Career Research
Date: ________
Of the careers you researched, which one felt like the "best fit"? Why?
What is one question you still have about that career?
Session 3: College Pathways
Date: ________
Which college pathway (Community, Trade, or 4-Year) feels most exciting right now?
Session 4: My Action Plan
Date: ________
What are the first two steps you are committed to taking this week?
Who is one person you can count on to support you in this journey?
"The best way to predict the future is to create it."
— Your Career Compass Journey —
Career Quest Lesson Plan Session 2: Career Exploration
Career Compass Series • Tier 3 Individual Support
50 Minutes
Why This Session Matters
Exploring specific careers helps students connect self-knowledge to real-world options, boosting motivation and confidence in planning next steps.
Objective
Guide the student to research and analyze 3–5 careers aligned with their interests and strengths, identifying key details to inform decision-making.
Audience
High School Student (one-on-one coaching)
Prep (10 mins)
Review and print: Career Research Worksheet , Occupational Outlook Guide , Informational Interview Role-Play Script , and Career Comparison Chart .
Ensure a computer or tablet is available with internet access.
Bookmark career databases (e.g., O*NET, Occupational Outlook Handbook).
Arrange a comfortable meeting space for role-play.
Session Instructions
5 MINS
Recap & Goal Setting
Review insights from Session 1 (Personal Reflection Journal ).
Explain today’s objective: research careers matching interests and strengths.
Agree on 3–5 careers to explore based on top interest areas.
5 MINS
Introduce Research Tools
Present the Occupational Outlook Guide .
Explain key data points: job description, education required, salary range, job outlook.
Show how to use online resources (e.g., O*NET).
20 MINS
Career Research Activity
Distribute the Career Research Worksheet .
For each career, research and record overview, duties, education, salary, and outlook.
Encourage use of both the printed guide and online databases.
Note any questions or surprises for discussion.
15 MINS
Informational Interview Role-Play
Hand out the Informational Interview Role-Play Script .
Assign roles: student as interviewer, coach as professional.
Practice asking questions about daily tasks, skills, and rewards.
Switch roles if time allows. Debrief on insights gained.
5 MINS
Reflection and Next Steps
Compare key factors using the
Career Quest Presentation Session 2:
Career Exploration
Connecting who you are to what you can become.
Teacher Notes Welcome the student and set the stage. Remind them of last week’s self-discovery insights and explain how we’ll connect those to real careers. Build excitement for the "Quest" ahead.
Recap & Goal Setting
Last Session Recap
Review your Top Interests, Strengths, and Values in your reflection journal.
Today's Objective
Research 3–5 careers that match your profile.
Pick Your Targets
Which careers from last week's ideas do you want to dig into today?
Begin by revisiting the student’s journal notes from Session 1. Help them see how today’s work directly builds on their self-awareness.
Research Tools
Occupational Outlook Guide
Quick facts on salary, growth, and education needs.
O*NET Online
Detailed data on daily tasks, tools used, and skills needed.
BLS Handbook
The government's primary guide to careers in the US.
Watch For:
Job Duties Education Level Salary & Growth
Introduce the main research tools. Walk through each section of the Occupational Outlook Guide. Demonstrate how to interpret data on O*NET.
Research Time
Your Mission:
Use the Career Research Worksheet to record key details about your top 3–5 careers.
Be critical! Does this career actually fit your interests and values?
Note Any:
Confusing terms
Surprising facts
Questions for a pro
Distribute the Career Research Worksheet and guide the student through filling it out. Circulate to answer questions and prompt deeper thinking.
Interview Role-Play
The Setup
1 Student = Interviewer
2 Coach = Professional
3 Switch Roles!
"An informational interview is the best way to get the real story behind a job title."
Key Questions:
• "What's a typical day like?"
• "What skills are most important?"
• "What's the best part of the job?"
• "What's the hardest part?"
Distribute the Informational Interview Role-Play Script. Model a quick demo, then have the student practice both roles. Focus on how it feels to ask and answer.
Reflection & Next Steps
Career Research Profile Worksheet Career Research Profile
Student Explorer
Date
Instructions: Select 3–5 careers from your Session 1 insights and research each one below. Use O*NET or the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Career 1:
Overview & Duties
Education Required
Salary & Outlook
Alignment with You
Career 2:
Overview & Duties
Education Required
Salary & Outlook
Alignment with You
Career 3:
Overview & Duties
Education Required
Salary & Outlook
Alignment with You Career Data Reference Sheet Occupational Outlook Guide
A quick-start guide to key career data points and terminology.
Key Terms to Know
Job Outlook
The projected change in employment (growth or decline) over a 10-year period.
Median Pay
The wage where half of the workers earned more and half earned less.
Entry-Level Education
The typical level of education most people need to enter this occupation.
Work Experience
Skills or experience needed in a related field to get hired.
Where to Find Data
O*NET Online (onetonline.org)
Best for: Detailed task lists, technology/tools needed, and specific work styles required.
Occupational Outlook Handbook (bls.gov/ooh)
Best for: Reliable government data on pay, job outlook, and educational paths.
Industry Comparison (Example)
Industry Growth Outlook Avg. Entry Level Healthcare Support High (16%+) Certificate/Associate Computer & IT High (15%+) Bachelor's / Certs Skilled Trades Moderate (5-8%) Postsecondary Cert.
Research Scratchpad
Jot down any interesting facts or confusing terms you find during your research.
Career Insider Interview Script Interview Role-Play Script
Practicing the art of the informational interview to unlock "insider" knowledge.
Instructions: Practice this informational interview in two rounds. Round 1: You are the interviewer. Round 2: You are the professional. Take notes as you go.
1
You as Interviewer
1. Tell me about a typical day in this career.
2. What are the most important skills needed for success?
3. What do you find most rewarding about this work?
4. What challenges or drawbacks should someone be aware of?
Debrief Round 1
What new insights did you gain? What follow-up questions would you ask?
2
You as Professional
Now you hold the keys! Based on your research, how would you respond to these same questions?
1. Typical day response:
2. Skill & quality response:
3. Rewarding/Challenge response:
Final Reflection
How did it feel to answer as a professional?
What did you learn about conducting an informational interview that you can apply to real life?
Career Showdown Worksheet Career Comparison Chart
Side-by-side analysis to help you make an informed decision.
Careers to Compare:
Factor Career 1 Career 2 Career 3 Education & Training Typical Salary Range Job Outlook / Growth Key Skills Needed Pros (Advantages) Cons (Challenges) Personal Fit Rating
Reflection
Which career seems the best fit overall, and why?
What additional information do you need before making a decision?
Pathway Planner Lesson Plan Session 3: College Pathways
Career Compass Series • Tier 3 Individual Support
50 Minutes
Why This Session Matters
Understanding different college types helps students align education choices with career aspirations, manage costs, and feel more confident about the application process.
Objective
Introduce students to various college pathways—community colleges, vocational schools, and four-year universities—compare their features, costs, and fit with career goals, and plan a clear next step toward applying.
Audience
High School Student (one-on-one coaching)
Prep (10 mins)
Review and print: College Types Overview Chart , College Comparison Worksheet , Financial Aid & Scholarship Guide , and Next Steps Planning Template .
Ensure the Personal Reflection Journal is on hand.
Arrange a computer or tablet for viewing online college resources if needed.
Set up a quiet, comfortable space for discussion.
Session Instructions
5 MINS
Recap & Goal Setting
Review career research and insights from the reflection journal.
Explain today’s focus: matching career goals to college pathways.
Agree on 2–3 college types to explore (e.g., community college, vocational school, four-year university).
15 MINS
College Types Overview
Present the College Types Overview Chart .
Discuss program length, admission requirements, campus size, and learning style for each.
Note advantages and challenges of each option. Record reflections.
15 MINS
College Comparison Activity
Distribute the College Comparison Worksheet .
For each pathway, fill in tuition/fees, program duration, and personal fit.
Encourage using online resources or guide notes.
10 MINS
Financial Planning Discussion
Hand out the Financial Aid & Scholarship Guide .
Review FAFSA, grants, loans, and scholarships.
Identify 1–2 funding strategies suited to the student’s situation.
5 MINS
Reflection and Next Steps
Summarize preferred pathway in the Next Steps Planning Template .
Pathway Planner Presentation Session 3:
College Pathways
Finding the right environment for your education journey.
Teacher Notes Welcome the student and set the stage for today. Remind them of the career research they did and explain how we’ll now find the school that fits those careers.
Today’s Agenda
1 Recap & Goal Setting
2 College Types Overview
3 College Comparison Activity
4 Financial Planning Discussion
5 Reflection & Next Steps
Objective
"Match your career goals to the educational path that fits your budget, timeline, and learning style."
Briefly revisit the student’s career research from last session before diving into the agenda.
College Types Overview
Community College
• 1–2 year programs
• Associate Degrees
• Lower cost
• Local & Flexible
Trade School
• 6 months–2 years
• Certificates & Licenses
• Hands-on learning
• Direct to career
4-Year University
• 4 year programs
• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Wide variety of majors
• On-campus experience
Introduce each college type using the overview chart. Discuss advantages and challenges so the student can see how each might fit their preferences.
Which One Fits?
We'll use the College Comparison Worksheet to weigh your top 2–3 options.
Think About:
• Tuition & Total Costs
• Program Length
• Admissions Requirements
• Campus Environment
Pro-Tip:
Don't just look at the prestige. Look at the Support Services (tutoring, advising, career help) available for students like you.
Guide the student through filling in cost estimates and program details. Encourage them to be realistic about their own preferences and learning style.
The Money Conversation
Key Terms
FAFSA Federal Financial Aid
Grants Free Money (Need-based)
Scholarships Free Money (Merit-based)
Loans Repaid with Interest
Funding Strategies
Identify 1–2 funding strategies that suite your situation.
Explain key financial aid concepts. Help the student identify realistic funding strategies and note follow-up questions about deadlines.
Pathway Comparison Overview College Types Overview
Understanding the different paths to your future career.
Instructions: Review the main features of each college type below. In the right-hand column, jot a few notes on how it aligns with your goals.
College Type Key Features Your Notes (Fit) Community College
Program: 1–2 years; Associate degree/certificateAdmissions: Open admission (HS diploma/GED)Environment: Smaller classes; local campusesFocus: Hands-on labs; flexible scheduling
|
|
| Vocational / Trade School |
Program: 6 months–2 years; Certificate/diplomaAdmissions: Varies; may require tests/interviewEnvironment: Workshop-style rooms; small cohortsFocus: Intensive practical training; apprenticeships
|
|
| Four-Year University |
Program: 4 years; Bachelor’s degreeAdmissions: HS GPA, test scores, essays, recsEnvironment: Large campus; on-campus housingFocus: Mix of lectures & seminars; research labs
|
|
Reflection
Which college type feels like the best fit for you, and why?
What questions do you still have about these options?
Pathway Comparison Worksheet College Comparison Worksheet
Comparing your top 2-3 pathways to see which environment suits you best.
College Pathways to Compare:
Factor Pathway 1 Pathway 2 Pathway 3 Program Length & Credential Admissions Requirements Tuition & Financial Aid Campus & Class Size Learning Style & Support Career Goal Alignment
Decision Driver
Which pathway seems the best fit overall and why?
What is one concrete next step you'll take to learn more?
Funding Your Future Guide Financial Aid & Scholarship Guide
Your map for navigating the costs and funding of your education.
1. Key Financial Aid Types
FAFSA Free Application for Federal Student Aid
The primary form for federal grants, loans, and work-study.
Target Deadline:
Grants
"Free Money" - Need Based
Scholarships
"Free Money" - Merit Based
Loans
Borrowed funds - Must be repaid with interest
Pros
Cons
2. Budget Planning
Expense Item Cost Est. Aid/Secured Remaining Tuition & Fees $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ Room & Board $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ Books & Supplies $ ________ $ ________ $ ________ TOTALS $ ________ $ ________ $ ________
3. Scholarship Search Strategies
Search Tools
• Fastweb (fastweb.com)
• BigFuture (collegeboard.org)
• Niche Scholarship Search
Keywords to Use:
Application To-Do
Update Resume
Draft Personal Essay
Request Rec Letters
Order Transcripts
Action Items
Top Action Plan:
Who can help me?
Target Date
Pathway Planner Worksheet Next Steps Planning
Setting your course for college and career success.
1. Preferred College Pathway
Which college type or specific school are you leaning toward?
Why does this feel like the right fit for you?
Advantages
Concerns
2. Immediate Action Items
Identify three concrete steps to take before Session 4.
1
What Action?
Target Date
Details / How?
2
What Action?
Target Date
Details / How?
3. Support & Reflection
Resources & People
Motivation Strategy
What makes you excited? How will you stay on track?
Action Roadmap Lesson Plan Session 4: Action Plan
Career Compass Series • Tier 3 Individual Support
50 Minutes
Why This Session Matters
A concrete action plan with deadlines and supports reduces overwhelm, boosts accountability, and builds confidence as students move toward their career and college goals.
Objective
Empower the student to consolidate insights from career and college exploration into a detailed, actionable plan with clear steps, timelines, and support resources.
Audience
High School Student (one-on-one coaching)
Prep (10 mins)
Review and print: Action Plan Worksheet , Timeline Template , Support Resources List , and Follow-Up Checklist .
Ensure the Personal Reflection Journal is on hand.
Arrange a comfortable, distraction-free space for planning.
Session Instructions
5 MINS
Recap & Goal Setting
Review key insights from prior sessions in the Personal Reflection Journal .
Explain today’s objective: create a step-by-step action plan with timelines and supports.
10 MINS
Outcome Summary
Summarize the student’s top 1–2 career choices and chosen college pathway.
Discuss priorities, motivators, and any concerns.
Identify major milestones (e.g., application deadlines, tests).
15 MINS
Action Plan Development
Distribute the Action Plan Worksheet .
Brainstorm specific action items (e.g., research scholarships, draft application essays, schedule visits).
Assign responsibility for each step and note tentative due dates.
10 MINS
Timeline Mapping
Hand out the Timeline Template .
Plot each action step along a calendar timeline leading up to key deadlines.
Adjust dates as needed to ensure realistic pacing.
5 MINS
Identify Supports & Resources
Provide the Support Resources List .
Discuss mentors, counselors, online tools, and community resources.
Note how and when to access each support.
5 MINS
Reflection & Commitment
Use the
Action Roadmap Presentation Session 4:
The Action Plan
Turning exploration into execution. Your journey starts now.
Teacher Notes Welcome the student and celebrate reaching the final session. Explain that today is about consolidation—taking everything they've learned and turning it into a real, doable plan.
The Final Roadmap
1 Recap & Goal Setting
2 Outcome Summary
3 Action Plan Development
4 Timeline Mapping
5 Support & Commitment
Objective
"Consolidate your career and college research into a step-by-step plan with clear deadlines and a support system."
Revisit the student's reflection journal one last time to ground today's planning in their personal insights.
Outcome Summary
Top Decisions
Careers: ________
Pathway: ________
Major Milestones
• Application Deadlines
• Required Tests (SAT/ACT)
• Financial Aid (FAFSA)
• Campus Visits
Summarize the student's top choices. Ensure they are clear on the big deadlines coming up in the next few months.
Building the Plan
Brainstorm the specific steps you need to take. Use the Action Plan Worksheet .
Ask Yourself:
• What exactly is the task?
• Who is responsible?
• What resources are needed?
Small Steps Lead to Big Wins
Break overwhelming tasks into tiny, manageable actions.
Guide the student through brainstorming action items. Encourage them to be as specific as possible (e.g., "Email counselor" instead of "Get help").
Mapping Your Timeline
Plot your steps along the Timeline Template to ensure you aren't rushing at the last minute.
Today
Month 1
Month 2
Goal Met
"A goal without a timeline is just a dream."
Help the student visualize their journey. Adjust dates on their timeline to ensure realistic pacing and avoid burnout.
Your Commitment
The First Steps
What are the first two action items you will finish this week?
1. __________________
2. __________________
Support System
Who is the person you will share this plan with?
Personal Roadmap Worksheet Personal Action Plan
Student Name
Date Created
1. Goals Summary
My Top Career & Pathway Decisions:
2. Action Steps
Specific Action Item Responsibility Due Date 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
3. Potential Obstacles & Solutions
Challenge / Barrier
Possible Solution
Challenge / Barrier
Possible Solution
Fuel for the Journey
What will keep you motivated when things get tough?
How will you track and celebrate your progress?
Action Timeline Template Project Timeline
Mapping your actions over time to reach your destination.
Instructions: Plot your action steps along this timeline. Start with today and work forward to your key deadlines.
Date / Month Action Item Status / Note
Visual Roadmap
Optional: Use this space to sketch a visual timeline (horizontal path) of your journey.
Support Network Directory Worksheet Support Network List
Identifying the people and tools that will help you cross the finish line.
1. Mentors & Personal Contacts
Full Name & Relationship
Contact Info (Email/Phone)
Best Time to Reach Out
Full Name & Relationship
Contact Info (Email/Phone)
Best Time to Reach Out
2. School & College Resources
School Counselor
Name: ________
Contact/Hours: ________
Career Center
Location: ________
Website: ________
3. Essential Online Tools
O*NET (onetonline.org)
Detailed career tasks and skills research.
College Board (bigfuture.org)
College planning and scholarship matches.
Fastweb (fastweb.com)
Comprehensive scholarship database.
4. External Support
Workforce Centers
Public Library Programs
Final Accountability Checklist Follow-Up Checklist
Checking off the milestones as you launch your plan.
"Check off each item when completed. Use the notes section to record dates or specific details."
Finalized Reflection Journal
Reviewed and updated my journal notes from all 4 sessions.
Action Plan Ready
Completed the Action Plan Worksheet with at least 5 concrete steps.
Timeline Mapped
Filled out the Timeline Template with dates for each major action.
Support Network Identified
Identified mentors, counselors, and online tools needed to succeed.
Shared the Plan
Shared my plan with at least one trusted adult or mentor for feedback.
Next Check-In Scheduled
Planned my next check-in date to track my ongoing progress.
Date:
Your future is in your hands.
"The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."
