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Writer's pictureCrissalyn Nguyen

How Schools Can Help Students Develop Soft Skills and Build Social Capital


High school is a critical period in a student's life where they are not only learning academic skills, but also developing the soft skills and social capital that will serve them well in the future. Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, are essential for success in any field, while social capital refers to the networks and connections that a person has within their community.


Soft skills are critical for success in any field, as they are the abilities that allow individuals to work well with others and effectively communicate their ideas. In today's increasingly collaborative and globalized world, it is essential to be able to work effectively in teams, to be able to communicate clearly and persuasively, and to be able to solve problems creatively. High school provides many opportunities for students to develop these skills, such as through group projects, extracurricular activities, and internships.


Schools can provide many resources for students to build soft skills, such as:


  • Public speaking and presentation opportunities: Schools can provide opportunities for students to develop their public speaking and presentation skills. This can include debates, speech competitions, and class presentations.


  • Leadership programs: Schools can provide leadership programs that allow students to develop their leadership skills and take on responsibilities in their school and community.


  • Counseling and coaching: Schools can provide counseling and coaching services to help students develop their emotional intelligence and self-awareness, which are essential soft skills.


  • Career counseling and guidance: Schools can provide career counseling and guidance services to help students explore potential careers and develop the skills needed to pursue them.


All these resources can help students to develop the soft skills they need to succeed in the future, and provide them with valuable abilities that can help them navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future.




Social capital, on the other hand, refers to the networks and connections that a person has within their community. This can include family, friends, colleagues, and other contacts that can provide support, advice, and opportunities. High school is an ideal time to develop social capital, as students are exposed to a wide range of people and can build relationships through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and internships.


Schools can provide many resources for students to build social capital, such as:


  • Extracurricular activities: Schools can offer a wide range of extracurricular activities that allow students to explore their interests and build relationships with like-minded individuals. These activities can include sports teams, clubs, and organizations.


  • Volunteer and community service opportunities: Schools can provide students with opportunities to volunteer in the community and engage with local organizations. This not only helps students to build relationships and connections but also allows them to give back to their community.


  • Networking events: Schools can organize networking events that connect students with alumni and professionals in their field of interest. These events provide students with valuable connections and advice that can help them in their future careers.


  • Mentorship programs: Schools can provide mentorship programs that connect students with professionals who can provide guidance and support. These programs can help students to develop skills and connections that will serve them well in the future.


  • Internships: Schools can provide students with internship opportunities that allow them to gain real-world experience and build connections in their field of interest.


All these resources can help students to develop the social capital they need to succeed in the future, and provide them with valuable connections and resources that can help them navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future.


Developing soft skills and social capital in high school is essential for success in any field. High school provides many opportunities for students to develop these abilities and build relationships that will serve them well in the future. These skills and connections will help students navigate the challenges and opportunities of the future, and set them up for success in any field they choose to pursue. At The Academy, we offer all of these opportunities for students to build their soft skills and gain social capital. Through out career symposiums and student support incubator, students have access to mentorship, internships, 1:1 teacher support, and so much more.


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