In August 2019, Johnson & Johnson with Lund University (campus Helsingborg) and Olympiaskolan, launched a Bridge to Employment (BTE) program in Helsingborg, Sweden. Targeting 45 Year 1 students enrolled at Olympiaskolan and enrolled in the Natural Science program area in school year 2019-2020, the three-year program provided a variety of academic enrichment, career exploration, and higher education preparation opportunities in order to increase in the number of young people completing higher education and pursuing STEM careers. Specific program activities and support was implemented throughout each program year to ensure students met the designed yearly short-term outcomes. Key activities included: •
Motivational Guest Speakers. BTE provided opportunities for motivational guest speakers to speak to students. •
Career Readiness Workshops. Students participated in career readiness workshops.
• Higher Education Exposure. Students attended lectures and fairs to gain awareness of higher education opportunities.
• Career Exploration Activities. Students visited The Science Center, attended site visits, and participated in job preparation activities with Johnson & Johnson, as well as participated in professional development opportunities with J&J professionals.
• Student Leadership. Students participated in peer learning groups and worked on leadership skills through volunteer opportunities.
• Cultural Awareness. Students also participated in cultural awareness workshop.
• Higher Education & Career Plan. Students toured Universities, participated in career planning, and completed career aptitude tests.
