Helping students plan and prepare 

for their next step

We get high schoolers ready for life after graduation — 

the life that’s best for them.

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Proudly serving high school students in north county san diego

A whopping 75% of high school grads say they don’t feel ready to make college and career choices.

Not on our watch.


While students learn a lot in school, “Adulthood 101” and “Informed Life Choices” simply aren’t part of the standard curriculum. Project Next is here to fill the gap. 


We offer students in San Marcos Unified and Escondido Union High School District the resources and support they need to confidently identify and get ready for their next move—the one they’re excited to pursue.

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The clarity, confidence, and connections to build their best tomorrow 

We help students navigate it all through a wide range of programs and services.

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Strengths Finding

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Career Coaching

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Job Shadowing

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Networking Opportunities

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Financial Aid Help

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Interview Practice

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Job Search Support

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Professional Dress

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Personal Finance Skills

VIEW ALL PROGRAMS & SERVICES

Led by former San Diego school counselors 


Our team brings a rare understanding of the needs of both students *and* schools.

Project Next Executive Director Lisa Stout and her team share a combined 30 years of experience as high school counselors. They’re well equipped to bridge the gap between the resources schools have and the support students need to plan the next chapter of their lives.

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“Project Next has made a critical impact on my life; it has allowed me to realize the sheer quantity of career paths that align with my passions. This was made possible through events such as Connect to Careers and Networking Hours. With this, I, as well as other students, gain the opportunity to speak one-on-one with professionals in fields we’re interested in, often gaining a contact or internship in the process!”



- Brianna J.


“Being part of Project Next has helped me build confidence, find my voice, and increased my passion for helping others. It’s tough being a young adult today and trying to find information, resources, and make connections for our future. But Project Next shows us what’s possible, helps us explore opportunities, and make well-informed choices for our futures.”



- Kelly A.


“Project Next has helped develop me into the person I am today. Recently, I’ve been interviewing for jobs and I have gotten compliments about my preparedness and professionalism, which is a skill I developed through Project Next. I even discovered my college major through research I did after the 2022 Connect to Careers meeting. Really, all my professional knowledge and most of my direction in life comes directly or indirectly from Project Next.”


- James L.

A heartfelt thank you to our generous donors


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Help fund our empowering programs, services, and events.

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Awards and Community Involvement


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