The purpose of this unit is to immerse students in realistic post-graduation scenarios, equipping them with essential skills for adulthood. Students will engage in practical communication, decision-making, and financial management activities to prepare for life beyond high school. By fostering self-awareness, resilience, and authentic connections between literature and personal experiences, students will develop the confidence and competence necessary to navigate future challenges and opportunities.

The learning goals for this unit focus on preparing students for post-graduation adult life through practical, real-world experiences. Students will enhance their professional communication abilities, including writing resumes and professional emails and mastering job search and interview skills. They will develop financial literacy and decision-making skills by actively participating in a life simulation with realistic challenges. Throughout the unit, students will reflect on their identities, choices, and resilience, connecting these experiences to broader themes of transition to adulthood as explored in a complementary literary text. Finally, they will cultivate self-directed learning by using feedback and reflection to monitor their growth and readiness for the real world.

Students will create a professional resume and an email portfolio, consisting of polished, real-world examples of job inquiries, follow-ups, and problem-solving communications. They will develop a personalized job search and career pathway plan that includes realistic job opportunities and required qualifications. Analytical and personal written reflections will be crafted, connecting literary themes to students' own identities and future aspirations. During the course, students will actively participate in mock interviews and collaborate with community partners, culminating in a Senior Readiness Showcase where they publicly present their growth and learning.

To launch the unit, host an immersive "Welcome to Adulthood" day where students receive a simulation identity (college student, employee, etc.) and a starter financial profile. Begin with a keynote from a community partner, such as the Family Resource and Youth Services Center, discussing common adult challenges. Follow with interactive workshops on professional email writing and resume creation, setting the stage for the real-world tasks they'll tackle. This day will establish an engaging, authentic atmosphere, fostering curiosity and collaboration from the start.

Students' learning and accomplishments will be showcased in a dynamic Senior Readiness Showcase. This event includes displays of student-produced resumes, professional email portfolios, and career pathway plans, allowing peers, teachers, and community members to engage with their work. The exhibition culminates with live mock interviews, where students demonstrate their interview skills and receive real-time feedback from community partners. Additionally, students will present their reflections on the literature and simulation experiences, highlighting their personal growth and future aspirations. Community partners and school staff are invited to join in recognizing students' readiness for life beyond high school.