Why are Online Challenges Beneficial for High School Students?
In today’s world, NAF knows that having access to high-quality work-based learning experiences can be challenging. We strive to close the opportunity gap and provide avenues for ALL students to develop professional skills, solve real-world business problems, and interact with professionals.
Enter KnoPro!
What is a KnoPro Challenge?
A KnoPro Challenge is an online challenge for high schoolers, where companies or organizations present a case study (a fancy way to describe a business problem or opportunity) and have students work independently to create a solution. These solutions are submitted, judged by members of the company/organization, and cash prizes are awarded to the winners! KnoPro, powered by NAF, sponsors these challenges on a regular basis which are open to all high school students.
Why are virtual work-based learning opportunities and online challenges beneficial for high school students?
High school students should care about virtual work-based learning opportunities and online challenges because they offer unique benefits that can positively impact their academic and career development. Here are some ways participating in a KnoPro Challenge can directly benefit students:
Skill Building
Virtual work-based learning provides high school students with the opportunity to learn and improve valuable skills. This might include industry-specific knowledge, as well as transferable skills like time management, effective communication, collaboration, and digital literacy. These experiences help students become more competent and confident in their abilities, which can set them apart in both college and job applications.
Flexibility and Accessibility
Many high school students have busy schedules with classes, extracurriculars, and part-time jobs. Participating in an online challenge offers flexibility that accommodates these commitments, often enabling students to work on projects during their free hours. Additionally, virtual work-based learning eliminates location barriers, making it possible for students from all backgrounds to gain experience at companies or organizations that might otherwise be inaccessible.
Building a Professional Network
Engaging in a virtual work-based learning activity introduces students to professionals in various fields, giving them the chance to make valuable connections. Building a network early in a student’s career can provide future opportunities for mentorship, college recommendations, or even job referrals. These relationships can be vital, as they progress in their academic and professional journeys.
Competitive Edge for College Applications
College admissions have become more competitive, and relevant work experience can make a student’s application stand out. Examples of virtual work-based learning provide proof that a student is serious about their future, committed to learning, and able to take initiative. This hands-on experience is often looked at favorably by admissions teams, as it shows a level of maturity and responsibility
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, virtual work-based learning, in the form of online challenges, is a valuable tool for high school students to explore career interests, build skills, learn about new industries, cultivate professional connections, build their resumes, and gain a sense of what the professional world entails. Embracing these opportunities can pave the way for future success and broaden their career possibilities.
If the high school student in your life would benefit from participating in a Challenge, check out KnoPro’s current Challenges!
Get ready! This January, we’ll be launching a Social Entrepreneurship Challenge with the Fleischer Scholars Foundation! Share the Challenge with students:
Do you dream of making a difference while building something extraordinary? In this Challenge, you’ll tackle a social issue—like homelessness, accessibility, or rainforest protection—by developing a new product, service, or business idea that creates real impact.
Learn more here: Social Entrepreneurship Challenge | KnoPro [powered by NAF]
