The NAF Student Journey

More than 113,000 students nationwide benefit from the NAF Approach to career learning in 619 high school academies nationwide.

Students and Alumni / Student Journey

The Future of the NAF Legacy

NAF academies support students from freshman year of high school to senior year with curricula and work-based learning experiences that progress each year. Students may learn about their ability to opt into a NAF academy while still in middle school, perhaps through a teacher, a tour of an academy, or a visit from current students, and may join the NAF Alumni Network after graduating.

Explore The NAF Student Journey

Since NAF academies are small learning communities within public schools, students participate in all the general education requirements expected in a public school setting. NAF courses fold into the regular school schedule and are integrated into the overall educational experience. Work-based learning activities may be included in the school day, with some taking place out of school hours (such as competitions and internships).

Freshman Year

Students are introduced to career pathway options. The curriculum includes introductory and foundational-level courses. Work-based learning experiences are focused on career awareness and include activities such as guest speakers and worksite tours.

Explore Our Career Pathways

Sophomore Year

Work-based learning activities become more hands on, bridging from career awareness to career exploration. The curriculum advances from general industry content to more specific learning, with courses such as sustainable tourism and professional ethics.

Explore our Curriculum & Expeditions

Junior Year

Junior year becomes critical as students begin to consider their post-secondary plans. Students may tour colleges, practice writing resumes, participate in mock interviews, and more. Coursework advances as well, as students prepare to participate in paid internships.

Learn about Work-Based Learning

Senior Year

Senior year is the beginning of the transition to life after high school. NAF seniors participate in career prep activities such as informational interviews and apprenticeships. Coursework becomes even more specialized, including concentrated studies and capstone projects.

Learn about the NAF Approach

Alumni

The NAF experience extends beyond high school. NAF students join our free NAF alumni network and prepare to take their academy experience into the real world, with NAF’s support!

Learn about the NAF Alumni Network