Gaining critical 21st-century skills and navigating postsecondary education and career options as a teenager can feel daunting, especially with countless educational pathways and industries to consider. But EvolveMe®, the free digital career readiness platform from American Student Assistance® (ASA), is revolutionizing the way kids explore, experiment with, and discover careers that match their strengths and interests, and prepare for life beyond high school.
Designed to help teens explore careers, connect with industry, and develop invaluable skills, EvolveMe empowers young learners to make informed choices about their future. Among its standout features is the partnership with UStrive, a nonprofit dedicated to matching students with professional mentors. Together, we’ve created opportunities that truly change lives.
UStrive’s Impact: Building Bridges Between Teens and Professionals
UStrive’s integration within EvolveMe provides students with a safe, professional environment to connect with mentors across diverse industries. These one-on-one interactions offer teens personalized guidance, helping them explore career options, develop strategies for achieving their goals, and gain confidence in their future aspirations.
The numbers speak volumes:
- 9,103 teens registered on EvolveMe.
- 388,658 interactions facilitated between mentors and mentees.
But beyond statistics, it’s the personal stories that highlight the true value of this partnership.
Aastha, a high school junior, dreamed of becoming an intelligence analyst or a field agent for the FBI but wanted a career to fall back on. She connected with William, a senior partner at a law firm, who provided invaluable advice about different legal fields, law school timelines, and managing student debt. William also shared personal insights on what he might do differently if he could start over, giving Aastha practical tools to plan her future.
Bleu, a high school senior passionate about healthcare and sciences, sought guidance on suitable majors and careers. Through her connection with Gareth, a health services professional, she received advice on preparing for college, exploring biology-related careers, and removing distractions to focus on her studies.
Srika, a high school sophomore, had a keen interest in criminal law but wasn’t sure how to start exploring her options. Her mentor, Kate, with a background in criminal justice and nonprofit leadership, guided her toward summer programs, internships, and even reviewed her resume. Kate’s insights also inspired Srika to think about launching her own nonprofit, further expanding her career horizons.
These mentoring relationships have helped teens gain clarity and direction during a pivotal time in their lives.
A Personal Journey: Deshayla’s Story
One of the most inspiring success stories comes from Deshayla “Shay” Brown, a first-generation college student with dreams of becoming a CEO and geneticist. Shay’s journey began with a sense of uncertainty. Though she excelled in high school and participated in organizations like Future Business Leaders of America, Shay found herself burned out and unsure about her career path after entering college.
Determined to find guidance, Shay discovered EvolveMe and, through its partnership with UStrive, connected with Bianca—a mentor who shared her background as a first-generation college graduate and business administration major. Within minutes of their first exchange, Shay’s perspective shifted. Bianca encouraged Shay to explore her dual interests by pursuing internships and online courses. Shay now believes that while obstacles like finances may slow her progress, they don’t have to define her future. Her mentor’s guidance has given her the tools to stay resilient and focused.
Unlocking Potential Through Technology
Shay’s story underscores the transformative power of technology in democratizing access to mentorship and career readiness resources. By connecting students with mentors who understand their unique challenges, EvolveMe and UStrive help young people take concrete steps toward their dreams.
Looking Ahead
As EvolveMe continues to grow, its partnership with UStrive exemplifies the importance of collaboration in fostering meaningful connections. Together, they’re not just preparing teens for careers—they’re inspiring them to dream big and equipping them with the tools to succeed.
Whether you’re a student seeking guidance, a parent or guardian supporting your teen’s journey, an educator, or a leader at a youth-serving organization looking for innovative tools, EvolveMe offers a world of opportunities. And with partners like UStrive, the future for young learners has never looked brighter.
