High School Resource

A Look in the Mirror

In this activity, students will gain valuable knowledge in the important role that personal reflection plays in the development and implementation of career goals.

Activity:

• Teacher informs students that personal reflection is crucial in all successful career endeavors and gives examples.
• Students are informed that a person must know “who they are” and what interests, skills, and talents they possess in order to meet career goals.
• Students are presented with the following statement:
  “If I always look in the mirror and am not afraid to contemplate, to seek answers, and to be open to new ideas, I will be wiser and more educated, thus making me more successful in my career.”
• Students discuss the statement and explain what it means. Then, they identify if they agree or disagree, providing rationale for their answers.
• After discussion, students are directed to answer the following questions in brief essay format:
  • “Who am I really (e.g., son/daughter, sister/brother, friend, student, worker)?” “What do I stand for?” “What is important to me?”
  • “What kind of a citizen am I now, and what kind of citizen do I want to be in adulthood?”
  • “How are my career goals impacted by my beliefs and actions?
• Upon completion of essay, students participate in an informal classroom discussion to reinforce learning.

Related NY State Academic Standards: W.9-10.4, W.9-10.6, W.9-10.8, and more!

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