story by Claire Miller
Many high schools ask students to take career aptitude tests to help them consider what college and career steps they may want to take after graduation.
At Alpharetta High School in Fulton County, Tier II educational leadership student Whitney Decaminada has led a research project on the school’s career aptitude testing and how to support students as they make post-graduation plans.
Tenth grade students in Fulton County Schools are required to take the YouScience Career Aptitude Assessment to determine potential college and career paths. Decaminada’s project adds a few more layers to this process: Asking students to fill out surveys before and after the aptitude assessment about their post-high school knowledge and ambitions; encouraging them to participate in focus groups; and scheduling one-on-one meetings between students to discuss their individual results.
These additional steps are designed to provide students with additional resources and support after their aptitude assessment results come in.
“This comprehensive approach enhances career guidance and fosters student engagement and self-awareness in navigating their post-secondary pathways,” she explained.
Decaminada’s research project has been one of the most meaningful parts of her time in the Tier II educational leadership program. This work has allowed her to put what she’s learning in the program into practice and have an impact on the students she sees every day.
“I believe that advancing my knowledge and skills in educational leadership will not only benefit my career, but also enable me to make a more significant impact in the field,” she said. “My heart is truly invested in educational leadership, and I am excited about the possibilities and growth opportunities that this program can provide.”
Decaminada was recognized for her academic achievements at the College of Education & Human Development’s annual Honors Day Ceremony on April 16.
She is the 2024 recipient of the Outstanding Tier II Educational Leadership Student Award, which recognizes a student in the educational leadership Tier II program who has demonstrated outstanding work with site-based action research and clinical experiences.
“This recognition serves as a milestone in my journey, affirming my commitment to making a positive impact in the field of education,” she said. “It also motivates me to continue striving for excellence, embracing opportunities for growth and contributing meaningfully to the development of students, colleagues and educational practices.”
For more information about this year’s Honors Day recipients, visit https://education.gsu.edu/cehd-honors-day.