Idea Exchange

How Are You Thinking About Your Career?

Open Call for High School Students

As a high school student, you are thinking about your future and what comes next. For some, the path may be clearer. But you may also feel overwhelmed, uncertain or anxious about making these decisions. As you navigate a fast-changing world, we want to understand what’s working and what’s not for you with career exploration and planning.

We’re bringing a group of youth together to find out what you want and need to begin to chart your work-life journey.

What guidance are you getting now? What do you wish was available? What, if anything, is holding you back?   

What is the Idea Exchange About?

The dynamic discussion will centre around understanding your experiences, needs and aspirations regarding post-secondary and career planning. We aim to explore topics such as: 

  • What does “career” mean to you? 
  • What career-related advice do you currently receive? 
  • What obstacles do you face when exploring career options? 
  • What resources or tools do you feel would prepare you for life after high school? 
  • How can teachers and guidance counsellors help you figure out your next steps and decisions? 
Why Should You Participate?

Your voice matters! By participating in this focus group, you will have the opportunity to: 

  • Share your unique perspectives and insights with education professionals. 
  • Help shape initiatives aimed at improving career guidance and resources for students like you. 
  • Influence the way career exploration and planning support is offered in high schools. 

CERIC, a national charitable organization focused on career development education and research, is inviting high school students to participate in an engaging conversation aimed at exchanging ideas and gathering valuable insights into how educators, families and communities can better support your post-secondary and career planning.

⭐ Participating students will each receive an honorarium ($40 VISA gift card.) This can also be an opportunity to gain community involvement volunteer hours!

Who Can Participate? High school students in grades 9 to 12 anywhere in Canada. We value diversity and encourage members of historically under-represented groups to apply. 

When and Where? This conversation will be virtual over Zoom, with separate focus groups for Grades 9-10 and 11-12. It will be conducted in English. 

  • Grade 9-10, Tuesday, May 28, 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm ET (75 minutes) 
  • Grade 11-12, Wednesday May 29, 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm ET (75 minutes) 
How to Participate?

If you’re interested in participating in this conversation and have your voice heard, apply by Monday, May 13, 2024.

Note: A Participation Release Form must be signed by your parent/guardian for your participation. You will asked to upload the completed form as part of your brief application. 

Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a difference in your education journey! Your voice can help shape how schools can better support career awareness and decision-making.