Nasrin Nawa |
July 8, 2024
Nebraska Extension helps youth explore various educational possibilities, discover potential career paths, and learn how to land their future careers through the dynamic Connecting the Dots program facilitated by 4-H.
Connecting the Dots programs provide invaluable insights into future postsecondary, military, and career options to hundreds of ninth and 10th graders across Nebraska counties and connect them to professionals to help them navigate their paths.
This is a full-day career simulation program provides students with a variety of interactive experiences. “Connecting the Dots offers a real-life simulation where students can learn how their high school choices impact their postsecondary education and future workplace experiences,” said Dawn Lindsley, statewide career and college readiness 4-H Extension educator.
Participants delve into their areas of interest, learn about career criteria, explore the importance of networking and work ethics, and receive comprehensive guidance to prepare for their future endeavors.
“I spent 20 years in public education as a middle school teacher. I know how important education and career exploration are for youth, especially in smaller communities,” said Elizabeth Dunn, youth development Extension educator. “The options youth consider are often limited to becoming a doctor, teacher or lawyer, so it’s important to expand their understanding of what is available.”
Moreover, students have the unique opportunity to engage directly with local industry experts, gaining firsthand knowledge and practicing essential skills at different levels. Dunn mentioned they always choose local professionals who can understand local youth better, and vice versa; youth can relate to and trust them.
“It was a lot of fun. You can definitely network with different people who are experts in what they do,” said Ryan Walker, a participant of Connecting the Dots. “It was easy to jump around and experience different careers you might not have thought of before. We had scenarios where participants knew where they wanted to go, but today exposed them to new options to consider.”
Nebraska City Mayor Bryan Bequette, who has been participating in this program as a business and industry partner for several years through 4-H, said he values this program immensely. The program opens the door to broaden options for youth with varied interests and skills, he said.
“One thing I truly appreciate about this program is that is helps young people understand just as much about what they don’t want to do in life as what they might want to do,” stated Lindsley. We all have limited time, money, and energy, so knowing this at a younger age and then focusing on developing knowledge, skills, and experiences can help youth develop a competitive advantage moving forward.”
The program also offers additional engaging workshops covering topics such as resume building, motivation based upon skills and other employability skills crucial for their future career exploration.
“It really opens your eyes to all the careers out there and shows there is always something you can do that you are interested in,” said Mia Valquier, another participant.
On average, Connecting the Dots holds 35 events each year, reaching approximately 150 people at each location, which may include just one school or several schools in the same vicinity. The program reaches over 4,000 students a year. About 60 Extension educators, assistants, and associates are involved in implementing this program.
Along with partners such as educational institutions, the military, and business & industry sectors, some 4-H councils and educational organizations provide grants for schools to participate in this program. Omaha Public Power District donates $15,000 annually to support multiple locations utilizing this opportunity.
“Connecting the Dots is a great program for engaging our rural school districts and helping students find local jobs that inspire them,” said Laurie Zagurski, stakeholder/community outreach manager at Omaha Public Power District. “It’s a great partnership for OPPD because it aligns with one of our community outreach focus areas of education and supports workforce development. We love it when members of our team can inspire students to pursue a career at OPPD and keep that talent in Nebraska.”
The 4-H offerings for school students extend beyond Connecting the Dots, encompassing multiple additional programs: Next Chapter,Tech Changemakers, and more. These initiatives cater to youth through adults, providing exploration, preparation, and development for their future careers.
“These programs are truly shaping the future of Nebraska,” said Lindsley. “This is a mission-driven career for me; connecting young people to next steps in reaching their fullest potential.”
To learn more about all these programs, click here.