El Futuro is a career development project for high school students meant to help them achieve better college entrance and completion rates by improving their prospects for fulfilling careers. Through the program students will gain a better understanding of their options for life after high school, including both higher education and entry into the workforce. Students will improve their interviewing and networking skills, build professional employment networks, and learn how to effectively approach potential employers and universities. Participants will gain self-confidence regarding their academic and job-related abilities, which should lead to greater engagement for their remaining time in school. HACE has been working with Latinos to strengthen their careers for over a quarter-century and has unique relationships with multiple generations of Latino professionals in the Chicagoland area. To provide students with career exposure, HACE engages local corporate partners to provide presentations, skill-building sessions, site visits, job shadowing, coaching and internship opportunities for students. EL FUTURO PROGRAM INCLUDES: - Professional Speaker Series - Company partners and members of HACE volunteer time with students during their class time and share experiences and advice about careers and higher education. - College Preparation - Students are invited to visit various colleges and workshops to learn more about dorm life, financial aid, the application process and scholarships. - Career Development Curriculum Members of HACE's Collegiate Chapters teach a career development curriculum constructed through a partnership with Junior Achievement. Curriculum includes resume building, networking skills, and a day long conference event where students practice the skills gained through program.