Overview
The Career Journey Videos series is a collaborative project developed by the Oregon Department of Education, the University of Oregon School of Journalism and Communication, and the Journalistic Learning Initiative. This transformative video series provides free, accessible interviews that highlight achievable career pathways, oering students a glimpse into diverse employment opportunities—including stories featuring members of Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes.
Designed to engage students and foster career exploration, each video combines storytelling with real-world career insights, making it a valuable resource for educators, librarians, counselors, and advisors guiding students through their career journeys.
Key Features
Near-Peer Mentoring through Video Profiles
The series relies on near-peer mentoring, a strategy that acknowledges students are more likely to connect with individuals close to their age. Each career pathway is introduced through:
Three- to four-minute video profiles, featuring professionals sharing their career stories and experiences.
Q&A sessions led by student ambassadors, who ask age-appropriate questions to foster relatable, engaging discussions.
This format encourages students to envision themselves in various career roles and helps demystify career paths that might seem out of reach.
Educational Resources and Usage
The Career Journey Videos are designed to be flexible for independent study or classroom integration. Each video is accompanied by:
Lesson plans with reflection exercises and writing prompts
Resources that guide students to reflect on career options and consider next steps in their education or career paths
Educators can use the series in classroom settings, advisory periods, or career guidance sessions, adapting the materials to meet student needs.
Impact and Accessibility
The Career Journey Videos ensure students from all backgrounds have access to meaningful career exploration tools. By providing diverse career stories, the series empowers students to see a wide range of possibilities for their future.
With the resources being free and easily accessible online, the series removes barriers to career education and makes it possible for any student, regardless of location, to engage with relevant, real-world career insights.
Conclusion
The Career Journey Videos series exemplifies the power of collaboration between education, journalism, and student engagement. With engaging, near-peer interactions and adaptable lesson plans, the series equips educators with tools to inspire students and guide them toward achievable career paths. By promoting accessibility and inclusivity in career education, the project supports Oregon’s broader goals of preparing students for high-demand industries.
As TOB continues, the initiative stands as a beacon for how state agencies, Tribes and industry can work in synergy, addressing pressing challenges while building a stronger and more resilient future for Oregon.
Please contact Jim Taylor: [email protected] for more information about agency engagement to support Team Oregon Build
Or start a chat with Team Oregon Build by clicking the chat icon in the bottom-right corner of your screen.