As graduation quickly approaches, the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education’s (MBRT) Next Generation Scholars (NGS) across Maryland are preparing to walk across the stage to college, career and new opportunities. Before they wrap up their time with MBRT, our students reflected on the impact that sustained guidance, meaningful relationships, and real-world exposure have had on their educational pathways and personal growth.
For many, MBRT has been more than a program – it has been a consistent source of support during some of the most critical moments of high school. Most MBRT scholars have engaged with the program consistently over the past three years, typically joining their cohort as 10th grade students. Through multiple meetings and engagements, MBRT program staff build relationships with these young adults, becoming a trusted partner and mentor in their journey.
Alden S., a senior at Kent County High School, shared that one-on-one advising through MBRT played a key role in shaping his post-graduation plans. By participating in college workshops and individualized support, Alden developed a clear timeline for the college application process and gained the confidence to pursue and earn acceptance to his dream school.
For Clarice C., a senior at Fort Hill High School in Allegany County, the MBRT provided guidance and perspective that extended beyond academics: “MBRT gave me guidance that my family couldn’t give me. It gave me a realistic perspective of college and put me in an academic space that I didn’t think I could be in.”
While college preparation is a large focus of statewide NGS programming, exposure to careers and varied postsecondary pathways remains a defining part of the MBRT experience. Jade B., a senior at Cambridge-South Dorchester High School, credits MBRT with helping her explore multiple career paths and refine her long-term goals. Through conversations with peers and exposure to different professions, Jade’s vision for her future expanded from solely pursuing physical therapy to include the study of rehabilitative psychology and law.
Souhalia D., another senior at Cambridge-South Dorchester High School, shared that MBRT career workshops and opportunities introduced her to fields she never previously considered: “MBRT helped me discover new interests. I never thought I would consider engineering, but being exposed to it changed how I thought about my future.”
These opportunities and experiences allow students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications, a model that MBRT sees as an essential part of preparing for life after high school. Another key milestone and somewhat overwhelming experience during the senior year is preparing to apply for a collegiate pathway.
The college application and financial aid process can be an overwhelming part of senior year. The MBRT helps students approach these steps with information, reassurance and ongoing support through initiatives including College Bootcamps, grant prequalification sessions and financial aid workshops.
Students highlighted the importance of having a reliable point of contact through FAFSA completion, financial aid review and college decisions. Morgan P., a senior at Fort Hill High School, emphasized how impactful it was to simply know support was available: “MBRT is a place I can go and get help.”
Whether students realize it while engaging with MBRT early in their high school journey, they are joining a support network that extends well beyond graduation. One of the most meaningful outcomes students shared is the lasting connection they’ve built with MBRT staff.
“The connection I’ve made with my Next Gen program manager is a very reassuring point of contact that I will use in the future,” Alden S. shared.
When asked what advice they would give younger students, the message was consistent: ask for help and stay engaged.
As MBRT NGS students, among other graduating scholars across the state, prepare to graduate and wrap up this chapter of their MBRT journey, one thing remains clear. These students are leaving with confidence, tools and connections to help them succeed wherever their paths lead.
Ke’yare H., a senior at Kent County High School, sums it up best: “You’ll never be alone in this process for your future because MBRT will be there for you.”
