In this episode of Pathways & Possibilities, Salena Burke explores a critical but often overlooked truth in career education: access and exposure matter just as much as information—and sometimes more. While we often assume that digital tools or internet access are enough to prepare students for the future, the reality is that many young people still lack meaningful opportunities to explore careers in ways that connect to their identity, community, and sense of possibility.

Drawing on recent research by Dr. Trina L. Fletcher, which examined the impact of the SEEK program on Black students’ engagement with STEM, this episode highlights how exposure shapes self-perception and career aspirations, especially for historically underrepresented youth.

From mentorship to culturally grounded experiences, we discuss what it takes to design systems that not only provide access but truly invite students into possibility. You’ll also hear why imagination, emotional resonance, and thoughtful storytelling must be part of the future of career learning.

If you're an educator, designer, policymaker, or simply passionate about equity in education, this conversation will spark new thinking about how we build career pathways that truly serve all students.

Dr. Fletcher, Examining Black Students’ and Mentors’ Experiences in a Summer Engineering Experience for Kids Programhttps://doi.org/10.1007/s41979-024-00142-z

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