On a sunny day in May, Justin and fellow students from the Arts, Media and Communication (AMC) Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways at Carver Vocational-Technical High School (Carver), Baltimore Design School and Patterson High School were keen to explore life after graduation through mock interviews and career discussions with industry professionals. Beyond its professional development goals, the event also provided valuable networking opportunities that helped students prepare for their future careers.
The day began with a Q&A panel, followed by breakout sessions where students engaged one-on-one with professionals. Professors outlined educational program requirements, while industry practitioners shared the realities of their daily work and the qualities necessary for success. The flexibility of the AMC pathways was a highlight for many students. Justin, a member of the 2025 graduating class at Carver, reflected, “Something that I learned (about my CTE pathway) is that I can do much more than I thought. I don’t have to stay in one lane, and I think that applies to others as well.”
Following the workshops, students toured Baltimore City Community College campus, with a focus on programs aligned with their CTE pathway. Students may select their pathway as early as the summer before ninth grade, and mentorship plays a critical role in guiding them through it. Reflecting on his experience, Justin shared, “I remember the first time I met him, I was helping out at a journalism event. I was given interview questions and he really encouraged me that day. He is part of the reason I am the way I am today.”
The "him" Justin refers to is Andre Jones, senior vice president of people, culture, and diversity at the Baltimore Banner. As a key industry partner and member of the AMC Program Advisory Committee (PAC), Jones mentors students and helps guide the program by offering career advice and personal insights. These sustained relationships help students envision their own futures. “It motivates me to be more of a leader in the field of my choice. Not only reinforcing boundaries but looking out for people and inspiring them too,” Justin added. 
PACs, mandated by the Maryland Department of Education for every CTE pathway, consist of professionals who collaborate with school staff to ensure students receive current, industry-relevant preparation. PACs meet regularly to organize experiences such as job shadowing, company tours, internships, and apprenticeships.
Maria Blanca, work-based learning specialist in the City Schools Office of Secondary Success and Innovation, works alongside Jones in the AMC pathway and serves on several PACs. She
emphasizes the importance of diverse stakeholder involvement: “We try to focus on having higher education partners, small and large businesses, as well as nonprofits to ensure we have a diverse group of stakeholders in these conversations.” While committee meetings often focus on staff collaboration, Blanca and the AMC team prioritized direct student engagement this year.
Senior Prep Day events vary across pathways, but the goal remains consistent: equipping students with real-world insights. Reviewing resumes served not only to help students present their skills effectively but also to showcase the impact of PAC members' efforts. Student feedback has been 
overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding the increased one-on-one interaction. Blanca stressed the importance of tailoring support to students' current needs: “In every single one of those events, we always pick the students up from where they are at. That way, we are offering something we know they can benefit from.”
PACs welcome new industry partners interested in supporting future graduates. To get involved or learn more about joining a PAC, please email Adenike Akintilo, manager of work-based learning, at aakintilo@bcps.k12.md.us.