Starting Blocks

Starting Blocks supplements traditional coursework with workshops focused on developing students’ job search skills, followed by opportunities for students to practice these skills and gain career exposure with local employers. Workshops cover three key aspects of the job search process (resume development, interviewing, and networking) and provide students with one-on-one coaching to strengthen their ability to “sell” themselves. Each workshop relies on community volunteers coming into the classroom or teen center, enabling students to work directly with—and learn from—a number of professional adults over the course of a workshop. While working with their coaches, Starting Blocks encourages students to ask about career opportunities in a safe environment where they can ask questions and explore different paths.

Our programming includes:

Resume Workshops

Students are guided through the process of writing a professional resume, beginning with brainstorming past accomplishments and culminating in the completion of a polished draft.

Mock Interview Workshops

During this workshop, students learn the basics of how to interview including what questions to expect and how to prepare.  Later on in the workshop, students have the opportunity to “interview” for an entry-level position with a mentor coach who can provide meaningful feedback on their strengths and weaknesses.

Networking Workshops

It’s not just what you know, it’s who you know! Starting Blocks strives to make networking fun and accessible for students of all academic and social backgrounds. By building these social connections, Starting Blocks helps students develop professional relationships and increase their networking skills.

Career Database

We are developing a database of local companies that hire high school upperclassmen, high school graduates, and college students. By accessing this database, students will have the opportunity to use the skills that they learn in our workshops towards real opportunities. As our community of schools, teen centers and employers grows, we will also be producing Career Fairs so that companies and students will have the opportunity to learn more about each other in a more relaxed setting. Exposure to and participation in these opportunities can expand students’ visions of potential career opportunities and inspire further education to prepare for success. They also provide meaningful volunteer opportunities for local professionals.

For a summary of what Starting Blocks is all about, view our Overview eBrochure. Starting Blocks is currently recruiting schools and teen centers who wish to host a Resume Workshop for their students; please learn more about this opportunity in our Resume Workshop eBrochure.