Exploration of a College and Career Readiness Leadership Program for Urban Youth

Authors

  • Samantha Bates Texas Christian University
  • Dawn Anderson-Butcher The Ohio State University
  • Jera Niewoehner-Green The Ohio State University
  • John Provenzano The Ohio State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/jyd.2019.664

Keywords:

college and career readiness, leadership development, positive youth development, urban youth

Abstract

Urban youth living in poverty are less socially and academically prepared to access postsecondary education compared to their more affluent peers. College and career readiness (CCR) programs traditionally focus on skill-building to assist with college and financial aid applications, test taking, and career exploration. The Youth Leadership Academy (YLA) program includes these components, but also incorporates positive youth development (PYD) and leadership skill development strategies to further prepare urban youth for college and career through internship, service, and leadership opportunities. Using a mixed methods approach, this study explored youth perceptions of the YLA, evaluating the influence of the program on youth outcomes and distilling what, if any, program design components contributed to their growth and learning. Qualitative findings suggest participation in the YLA was perceived to support growth in communication skills, social skills, readiness for leadership roles, and preparation and knowledge for future college and career opportunities. Additionally, quantitative results demonstrate positive, significant increases from pre- to post-program test in leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills for youth. Program design components shown to support positive outcomes included positive relationships with peer and adults, skill-building sessions, and applied internship experiences. Findings suggest that PYD approaches with CCR and leadership skill development programming may promote positive social outcomes for vulnerable youth. Implications for intervention, practice, and future research are discussed.

Author Biographies

Samantha Bates, Texas Christian University

Assistant Professor

Department of Social Work

Dawn Anderson-Butcher, The Ohio State University

Professor

College of Social Work

Jera Niewoehner-Green, The Ohio State University

Assistant Professor 

Department of Agricultural Communication, Education, and Leadership

John Provenzano, The Ohio State University

Community Lecturer

College of Social Work

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Published

2019-09-12

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Section

Program & Practice Articles