Career Readiness
Career Readiness Portfolio Requirement
Supplemental Requirement: Complete two Supplemental activities.
Core Requirements
Interview Prep Questionnaire
Complete answers to questions that are commonly asked during job interviews and include the completed questionnaire in your portfolio.
Resume & Reference Page
Include a completed professional resume and reference page in your student portfolio. Google and Microsoft both offer resume templates, and many online resources can help with professional formatting and content.
Students are also encouraged to ask their JATC instructor for feedback regarding expectations and professional norms within their specific career field.
References should generally be listed on a separate page from your resume.
Professional Dress
Participate in at least one professional dress event during the school year. Include the certificate of participation or instructor verification provided in class as evidence in your portfolio.
Supplemental Requirements
Complete two of the following:
Maintain Employment
Maintain employment for a minimum of three consecutive months. Employment must be verified using the Work Experience Documentation form and included in your portfolio.
Mock Interview Completion
Complete a mock job interview with a JATC staff member or industry professional. Mock interviews may also be conducted virtually.
The interviewer should complete the Mock Interview Documentation and return it to the student. Include the completed document in your portfolio as evidence of the experience.
LinkedIn / Indeed Profile
Create and maintain a LinkedIn or Indeed profile. The profile should include information in the following sections:
- Experience
- Education
- Skills
- Volunteer Experience & Causes
Include a PDF copy or screenshot of your completed profile in your portfolio.
Cover Letter / Letter of Introduction
Create a completed cover letter that could be used as a letter of introduction when applying for a job.
Samples and templates for writing professional cover letters are available online. The resource below provides examples and guidance.
Dream Career Write-up
Complete a write-up about your dream career. Use the provided prompt to explore questions such as:
- What subjects or activities do you enjoy most in school?
- What is your career of choice?
- Why are you interested in this career?
- What is the best aspect of this career?
- What is a possible negative aspect of the job?
- What education, training, or certifications are required?
- What are the benefits of the job?
- What skills do you already have that could transfer to this career?
Reality Check
Explore how your future career and income may support your desired lifestyle. Complete the Reality Check activity and take a screenshot of your results to include in your portfolio.
Instructor-Approved Activity
An instructor and/or counselor may approve another activity that meets the expectations of the Career Readiness component.