However, exploratory SAE programs can also be used by high school students for complementing entrepreneurship and placement programs. There are two types of exploratory SAE activities, career exploration and agricultural literacy. Most exploratory SAE activities will incorporate some of both types of activities. The first type of exploratory SAE is designed to increase agricultural career awareness. Middle school students, in particular, need to explore agricultural career possibilities.
Most students make their initial career decisions in middle school.
The exploratory SAE program can be an excellent technique to further expand career knowledge. Exploratory SAE can also assist in addressing two other recommendations of the National Academy Report. First, exploratory SAE can help female and minority students become alert to agricultural careers, since both groups tend to be under-represented in agricultural occupations and professions. Secondly, exploratory SAE can address the need to emphasize professional agricultural careers to a greater degree, showing the connection between college preparation and agricultural leadership, business, and scientific occupations. Exploratory SAE programs designed to increase career awareness might include interviewing agriscience personnel, mentoring or shadowing, and conducting hands-on activities related to an agricultural career.