Career

Social capital is the access and the ability to mobilize relationships and resources that help you - the student - further your potential and reach your goals. When you think of social capital, think about these three elements:

• Resources within your social capital: it can be anything or anyone that can help you get things done. For example, if you need a job, you may reach out to friends or connections to learn about opportunities that are out there for you, or who can introduce you to an employer.

• Structure of your social capital: think of the size and the preferences you have when building your network. How you want to structure your social capital is up to you, what you envision, and your ability to build a network. Size and types of network determine the quality and variety of resources you have access to.

• Nature of your relationships within your social capital: the quality of relationships may determine the access you will have to resources. These relationships may be built on factors like societal norms, expectations or obligations, feelings of trust, trustworthiness, etc. 

Social capital is pivotal to build your occupational identity and connect to intentional, meaningful career pathways through and after high school. It gives you access to knowledge that you can use to make informed decisions on your postsecondary plans.

Social capital also means reciprocity. Remember: you are part of your social capital, and bring access to knowledge, resources and skills to share with your community