About Pathfinder: NextGen Careers

Pathfinder: NextGen Careers is a one-week discovery program for U.S. youth. This unique program unveils new advances in thought, technology, and practice in emerging career fields such as quantum physics, AI, technology, business, and entrepreneurship. The program engages participants in real-world, hands-on activities that connect career interests with invaluable technical skills for related fields. NextGen Careers includes daily workshops focused on applied learning, personal reflection, and skills development for an increasingly interconnected world– all of which are essential for active global citizens in modern work environments.

Selected participants will be the first members of this unique pilot program, serving as the building blocks for impactful youth programming that strengthens personal and professional development through collaboration and hands-on field experience.

Things to Know

As a Pathfinder, you’ll strengthen power skills such as collaboration, communication, conflict resolution, adaptability, and problem solving. These skills will serve as pillars in your journey toward your future career, wherever it leads you, and as an active citizen. Combined with focused classes, hands-on field experience, and engaging workshops, you will explore how to effectively use power skills in building professional and personal bridges, in fostering dialogue exchange, and in creating connections that will help you pursue your goals.

With over 75 years of experience in collaborative learning, intercultural education, and peaceful dialogue, AFS-USA brings a unique, expert perspective to youth power skills building. This hands-on approach empowers youth with cultural agility and understanding to cope with real-world challenges that they carry with them as lifelong tools for relationship-building and adapting to an ever-changing world. AFS-USA’s dedication to bringing young people together builds a sense of community and belonging that inspires future leaders and changemakers.

Cost & Dates

Dates June 22-29, 2026
Cost $3,590
Application Deadline May 28, 2026

Eligibility

Graduates Eligible? No, high school graduates are not eligible to participate.
Age Range (at program start) 15 years and 0 months to 17 years and 12 months
Language Skills No language requirement
Country of Residence Applicants must be residents of the U.S.

If you will need accommodations for a diagnosis or disability to participate in this program, such as severe allergies, strict dietary restrictions, or a requirement for psychotropic medications, please get in touch with a member of the Innovation Team to discuss options.

Pathfinder NextGen Careers – Applicant

Applicants Must:

  • Apply by May 28, 2026
  • Show a strong interest in emerging technology careers, and a curiosity for innovative career fields
  • Demonstrate a desire to strengthen power skills
  • Have a willingness to provide post-program feedback
Domestic Programs Info Sessions

Information Sessions

Learn more about AFS-USA’s new Domestic Programs by watching this recorded information session! You can also schedule a meeting with AFS-USA staff if you’d like to speak with someone one-on-one. We can also be reached at [email protected].

Watch the Recording

Sample Program Itinerary

Activities are subject to change.

  • Arrival – Cincinnati Airport [CVG]
  • Ground transportation to Miami University of Ohio [MU]
  • Campus Check-In with AFS-USA Program Staff
  • Settle into dorm rooms
  • Arrival Orientation
  • Welcome Dinner
  • Evening Icebreaker Activity

Sample Daily MU Activities

Forging the Future: Where Talent Meets Technology

Visit the Advanced Manufacturing Workforce and Innovation Hub and learn about student-led and designed technological solutions that improve the quality of life and shape the world we live in!. Engage in learning labs to collaboratively solve problems with engineering and computing tools. See how technology preserves languages or makes experiences more accessible.  Find a launchpad for the next generation of makers, innovators, and problem-solvers.

Communicate Your Values through Design-thinking and Prototyping

Make meaning of an experience through creating! Through applying the visual rhetoric techniques and rapid-prototyping tools of the the MakerSpace, you will bring your ideas to life. Develop, design, and produce a personalized creation that communicates your core values and vision

Connect Across Cultures and Time

Consider past civil rights legacy and contemporary change. Gain real experience in collaborating with others different from yourself as you work together to complete an outdoor challenge course.

Pathfinder NextGen Careers – Accommodations

Your Accommodations

During your time at Miami University of Ohio, you will stay in dorm-style accommodations. This will be a great opportunity to get to know your fellow program participants and explore the university’s environment, as well as provide easy access to all workshops and activities taking place on campus.

What's Included

  • 7-night dormitory stay (double occupancy)
  • Ground transportation (arrival/departure and excursions)
  • Daily classes and activities on emerging technologies
  • AFS-USA cultural agility and power skills workshops
  • 3-daily campus meals
  • Entrance fees for excursions and events

Learn more and share this program with others using this one-pager!

 Start an Application

Eligible students must create a Jotform account to view and submit an application.