Scaffolding Family Science Student Experiences to Increase Employment Options and Preparedness

TLDR: In this article, the authors describe how undergraduate curriculum in family science can engage with partners in the community to prepare millennial students more effectively for employment in their chosen fields, which results in increased competence, confidence, and experience for students.

Abstract: This paper describes how undergraduate curriculum in family science can engage with partners in the community to prepare millennial students more effectively for employment in their chosen fields. Students begin the three-course process in a Professional Development course that serves as the foundation for translating classes to the community. The process culminates in an applied internship experience that facilitates a direct transition into the workforce through improved professionalism and self-presentation skills. The scaffolding results in increased competence, confidence, and experience for students. These qualities positively impact their intentionality in the classroom and the application of knowledge in applied environments.