Since elementary school, we have been confronted with the pressing question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Yet, despite years of reflection, most high school students remain unsure of what career path to pursue after graduation. This uncertainty extends to Diamond Bar High School, generating additional stress for upperclassmen during their college application process and transition into adulthood. By offering structured career pathways, DBHS can reduce students’ anxiety about the future and guide their exploration of potential career fields, providing them with the necessary experience to make informed decisions.

Career Technical Education (CTE) programs are one way for schools to bridge the gap between high school curriculum, higher education and even the workforce. The CTE programs, supported by California Governor Gavin Newsom and boasting 57 pathways across 15 different industry sectors, provide students with the opportunity for students to acquire vocational skills needed for their careers past secondary school. Additionally, these courses satisfy the UC/CSU A-G requirements for students who plan to apply to an in-state university.

Some schools partner with local community colleges as well, offering extensive courses in areas such as healthcare and engineering. These programs not only provide high school students with hands-on experience but also give them the opportunity to earn college credit and certifications, benefiting students in pursuing their intended careers.

Neighboring schools such as Rowland High School and Walnut High School have implemented these programs into their curriculum, yielding high numbers of student engagement.

While our school does offer a few CTE courses on campus, they are limited, with most of them reflecting a pathway relating to business. Consequently, those who aren’t interested in the field of business receive little assistance from the school curriculum to explore different fields of work and study. 

Some students choose to participate in clubs––such as Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) and Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA- Future Health Professionals)––that aim to mimic certain aspects of their respective career possibilities and help develop related skills. However, these organizations mainly provide competition-based objectives that don’t offer the same level of rigor a formal pathway would.

With the impending task among teenagers to dictate a path for their future, it is important to emphasize career exploration in high school. Allowing students to take courses that align with their interests will provide them with the opportunity to gain experience and valuable skills in those areas, preparing them for success in their future careers. Implementing specified career pathways such as CTE pathways at our school will boost confidence among teenagers, instilling certainty in their goals and aspirations for the future.