Empowering Future Leaders: Project Next’s Networking Event at Chase Bank


At Project Next, we believe in the power of connection and the impact of real-world learning experiences. Recently, our students had the incredible opportunity to attend a networking event hosted by Chase Bank, where they not only gained financial insights but also built connections with professionals from diverse career paths. This event showcased the importance of preparing students for their futures by equipping them with both financial literacy and career skills. 

Financial Literacy: A Key Takeaway

A standout theme from the event was financial responsibility. Students came away with valuable knowledge on budgeting, managing expenses, and building credit—skills that are often overlooked in traditional education. As one student shared, “I learned how to create a good budget for myself and how to cut expenses without cutting too much of my priorities.” Another added, “Budgeting is an important skill to maintain in order to achieve desired goals.” These lessons gave students tools they can apply immediately and build upon as they move toward financial independence.


The hands-on workshop led by Chase Bank professionals brought these concepts to life, with students learning practical financial strategies they can use throughout their lives. From building credit to budgeting for long-term goals, the event emphasized the importance of financial wellness and responsibility.

Building Confidence Through Networking

In addition to the financial literacy component, students valued the opportunity to meet and network with professionals from Chase Bank. For many, this was their first time engaging with career professionals in a formal setting, and the experience was both inspiring and empowering. One student reflected, “The event helped me feel more confident and prepared".

September 18, 2026
In September of 2023, Project Next officially began a new chapter. And in honor of our third birthday, we thought there was no better time to tell the story of how we got here. The truth is, our story started long before there was a Project Next. It began with a young woman growing up in a low-income, single-parent household who would become the first in her family to attend college. College felt foreign, and the path forward was anything but clear. But one high school counselor believed in her, helped her see possibilities she could not yet see for herself, and changed the course of her life. That young woman was our founder and Executive Director, Lisa Stout.
People gathered around a laptop, smiling and working together at a table.
August 29, 2026
From coding basics to online collaboration tools, here are the essential digital skills that make high school students more competitive and career-ready.
Smiling student holding books outside a modern campus building
July 26, 2026
Discover summer internship and volunteer ideas that build skills, networks, and stronger college and job applications for North County teens.
Three friends smiling and celebrating outdoors, holding flags in a sunny city setting
June 28, 2026
Discover practical scholarship strategies, essay tips, and recommendation letter advice to improve your chances of earning money for college or career training.
Businesswoman smiling and shaking hands across a desk in a bright office
May 31, 2026
Learn professional workplace etiquette, communication skills, and responsibility habits that can help students succeed in their first job experiences.
Speaker at a podium addressing an audience in a meeting room, with an American flag nearby.
April 27, 2026
Learn how high school students can develop leadership skills through clubs, sports, and volunteer work to boost confidence, resumes, and future success.
A smiling person in a green sweater uses a laptop at an office desk, while another person works in the background.
March 30, 2026
Learn how students can build a strong personal brand to stand out in college applications and job searches with real-world tips and strategies.
Businesspeople greet each other in an office. A woman shakes hands. Bright lighting.
February 13, 2026
Learn practical networking tips for teens, including social media etiquette, events, and finding mentors to build meaningful connections early.
Woman taking notes while watching a presentation on a laptop, with a second laptop showing graphs, indoors.
January 21, 2026
Learn strategies to balance school, work, and extracurriculars, stay productive, and avoid burnout. Tips for students from Project Next.
Woman walking two dogs on a brick path, wearing a vest and carrying a bag.
December 12, 2025
Explore the best part-time jobs for high school students. Learn which roles build skills, responsibility, and income while balancing school commitments.