Before you deliver your session, here are the key items to bring and important checks to make sure everything runs smoothly.

• Visual aids, snacks, water
• USB backup
• Working With Children Check
• Virtual session setup
• No photos/screenshots policy

Your energy and attitude make a big difference. These reminders will help you create a welcoming and encouraging environment.

• Smile, show energy, be authentic

Here are some tips to help you communicate effectively, avoid jargon and make sure everyone feels included.

• Avoid jargon
• Explain acronyms
• Keep it PG

Use these prompts to prepare your personal story in a way that feels authentic and relatable.

• Introductions
• What inspired you
• Your day-to-day

When a role model applies, the educator is notified and can review their profile. If the role model is a good match, the educator can reach out directly through the platform.

• Timeframes
• Permissions
• Group size
• Transport considerations

Explore ways to keep students interested and hands-on during your site visit.

• Narrate spaces
• Encourage interaction
• Hands-on activities

Students may ask questions about your job and training. This list can help you prepare your answers.

Questions students may ask you as a young person:

• What was your first job?
• When you were our age, what did you think you would do for a career?
• What did you look forward to the most when you were younger?
• Was there a catalyst moment that took you to this career path? Story?
• What subjects in school did you find useful for future employment?
• What subjects at school interested you in primary and/or secondary school?
• What were your positive influencers in primary school e.g. excursions/incursions/activities you remember?
• Did you have an inspirational person who helped shape your career path?
• Knowing what you know now, what would you include in Education?
• If you could talk to your school age self, what advice would you give?
• Are you still doing the job you thought you would in High School?

Education and skill building advice:

• What was the most difficult part of school for you?
• How do I decide what classes to take for a career in technology or engineering?
• What kinds of skills should I start learning now?
• What are some ways you’ve built your confidence?
• What entry level jobs or volunteering is available in your field?
• What should I do now to learn more about my career options in STEM?
• How do I choose what jobs I should apply for?
• Do you have any advice on how to prepare for a job interview?
• How did you pay for your education?
• When should I start looking into scholarships, grants, or loans and how do I find them?
• Does your company offer apprenticeships, traineeships, cadetships or internships?
• If you were to employ someone from this room, what are you looking for? (curiosity, resilience, emotional regulations)
• What wages per hour should a newcomer expect in your industry?

Your current career:

• How did you figure out what to do for a career?
• What did you consider when deciding to take this job?
• What is your favourite part of your workday/workweek?
• What is an example of a project you have worked on that was interesting to you?
• What is an example of a problem you helped solve?
• Tell us about a time you had to ask for help at your job.
• What do you get to do because of your job that you wouldn’t get to do otherwise?
• What is the biggest mistake you've made at work?
• What is the hardest part of your job?
• What is your office/workspace like?
• What is the starting salary for someone in your job?
• What does your company look for when they are hiring someone?
• How does your current job include STEM?
• Does your job give you a sense of purpose? Why/How?
• In your job, what keeps you motivated and passionate?
• What skills come naturally to you that spark your career choices?
• Is there anything about the job you don’t like?
• Was there an individual or catalyst event that sparked your interest in your industry?
• Was there a particular industry you didn’t want to work in and why?
• What are your personal qualities that you use as a strength in your working environment?
• What practical skills do you wish you had?
• Jumping forward a year, what would you have liked to achieve in the past year at work?

Here are some reminders to help you use language that is age-appropriate, inclusive and respectful of every student.

• Remember you’re talking to kids! Be sure to explain technical words or acronyms.

Example:

‍“I’m a Project Manager – that means I’m the boss of my team! Have you ever had to work together with your friends to do something for school? I’m like your teacher; I tell my team what needs to get done and I help everyone learn how to do it!”

• Please don't assume pronouns when addressing students. Use they/them, general references like “your classmate,” or identifying details (“the student in the back with the red shirt”).